Imagine living in an environment where freedom doesn’t exist. Unfortunately for Faina Kozoipeba, that situatino was her reality.
Faina was a long way from her home in Russia when she left to live in Clarkston with her boyfriend. The two were married shortly after her arrival in the United States. But after only a few months of marriage, Faina wanted a divorce and to return home.
According to Deputy Craig Stout, with the Independence substation,the environment of Faina’s home was anything but normal. Her husband worked all of the time, and left Faina to tend to the house and to him. The deputy said she was denied a car, a license and a life. Faina was a prisoner in her own home, until one day her eyes opened.
Faina made a call to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
‘The woman was requesting help,? said Deputy Stout. ‘She ended up coming to the station before we could get to her.?
Stout described Faina as emotional, terrified and with nothing in her wallet. Her only possession was an open ticket for Russia.
‘She felt she was being held hostage,? said Stout. ‘She was fearful because he had made violent threats toward her.?
With the help of the sheriff’s office, Faina returned to her home to retrieve her belongings. After an hour of packing, Deputy Stout said she was a step closer to freedom.
Faina’s husband was present during her evacuation; however, he was hesitant to make a statement to the police. Since the case involved no physical assault, the complaint was listed as a civil matter.
Deputy Stout was the officer in charge of making arrangements for Faina’s return to Russia, including her cab ride and flight. Since that time, two months have passed and all Deputy Stout hoped was Faina was safe in Russia. That hope was quickly confirmed with a holiday greeting.
Faina sent Stout a card of thanks. She wrote of her appreciation toward the sherrif’s office and especially toward Deputy Stout.
‘It was nice to get the letter,? said Stout. ‘I’m happy she appreciated our time and our efforts.?