Court throws out corruption charges against ex-Tatra CEO Adams

The Brno Municipal Court has dismissed corruption charges against Ronald Adams, the former CEO of the truck maker Tatra Kopřivnice. Then deputy defence minister Martin Barták had claimed that Mr. Adams had promised him CZK 20 million in 2009 if he could deliver a deal under which Tatra would supply vehicles for the Czech Army. Mr. Adams had consistently denied the allegation. The state attorney can still appeal Tuesday’s verdict.

Mr. Barták, who became minister of defence after the alleged offer was made, is himself facing charges of soliciting a bribe from Tatra’s management.