Iran sentences Newsweek journalist in absentia to more than 13 years in prison and 50 lashes

Iran sentences Newsweek journalist in absentia

TEHRAN, Iran — A lawyer says a Newsweek reporter has been sentenced in absentia to more than 13 years in prison and 50 lashes.

Maziar Bahari, a dual Canadian and Iranian citizen, spent nearly four months in jail but was released on bail and allowed to leave the country to join his British wife in London in October.

He was among dozens of political activists and figures facing a mass trial in August as part of a crackdown following disputed presidential elections.

His lawyer, Saleh Nikbakht, told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he has learned that Bahari was sentenced to 13 and a half years in prison and 50 lashes.

Nikbakht says the verdict was possibly issued in early May but still has not officially been given to his office.