The case against Andrii Dmyterko, a Ukrainian truck driver charged with two counts of vehicular manslaughter following a fatal crash in Thomasville, Alabama, has reached a standstill due to the shortage of a state-certified Ukrainian interpreter, authorities say.

Dmyterko, who was driving an 18-wheeler at the time of the crash in May 2025, has been held in the Clarke County Jail for nearly three months without a preliminary hearing. According to investigators, a passenger in the truck said Dmyterko was distracted while answering a phone call from his wife. The crash report indicated that he didn't come to a stop until more than two football fields away.

The delay arises from the fact that Alabama currently has only one state-certified Ukrainian interpreter, who is occupied with another case. Attorneys representing Dmyterko have noted that this shortage prevents the court from conducting proper hearings.

Defense Attorney Chalea Tisdale stated, "It does have an impact on my ability to argue any bond motion because the judge can't hear the case until we get an interpreter." Additionally, Defense Attorney Christine Hernandez explained the critical role of an interpreter for both the court and the defendant, emphasizing the necessity for precise, verbatim translations.

Attorneys mentioned that a Russian interpreter might suffice due to similarities between the languages, but the strict accuracy required by the court complicates this alternative. Moreover, becoming a court-approved interpreter involves rigorous testing, background checks, and fees of up to $500.

Dmyterko, who is in the U.S. on a work visa, has pleaded not guilty, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has placed a hold on him.

According to FOX10 News, the case will remain stalled until an interpreter becomes available, potentially prolonging Dmyterko's detention.

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