Watch CBS News

Russian Tourist Facing Charges For Climbing Brooklyn Bridge Signs Up For Community Service

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - A Russian tourist accused of climbing up a cable on the Brooklyn Bridge in August was in court Friday, and is still waiting for a final resolution.

Yaroslav Kolchin faces a reckless endangerment charge for climbing to the top of the bridge because it was "fun," WCBS 880's Irene Cornell reported.

Russian Tourist Facing Charges For Climbing Brooklyn Bridge Signs Up For Community Servicee

Kolchin was seen walking back and forth on the landing, taking photos with his iPhone, police said. They said once a police aviation unit was hovering at an altitude next to the tower, Kolchin began to descend safely down the same way he had climbed up.

He was met by police at the security gate, where he was taken into custody without further incident.

In the meantime, Kolchin has signed himself up for community service-- something the judges have said would be far more fitting than the 90 days in jail prosecutors were offering him.

He is spending his time volunteering for New York Cares, Cornell reported.

"Yes, last time in Russia, it was my dream. But in America, it is reality, it's really great," Kolchin said.

Kolchin said his English is getting better every day, saying "I love this country."

You Might Also Be Interested In:

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.