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Full Breakdown

Daredevil Couple’s Empire State Building Climb Leads to Negotiated Plea Talks

By Drooid · · How we work

In this breakdown

01

Stunt Climb and Legal Fallout

In July of this year, New York-based daredevil duo Angelina Nikolau, 33, and Ivan Kuznetsov, 32, scaled the Empire State Building to display a massive banner and deliver a marriage proposal that quickly went viral. Their ascent, performed without permission, resulted in their arrest on multiple charges, including reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, burglary and misdemeanor climbing of a structure.

02

Charges and Court Supervision

Following the arrest, the pair were released under court supervision, which initially required monthly check-ins with a supervising officer. At a recent Manhattan status conference, a judge lifted the mandatory check-ins, allowing the couple greater freedom while the case proceeds.

Visual evidence

Two people holding a banner on top of the Empire State Building
Two people holding a banner on top of the Empire State BuildingPhoto: foxnews
A person proposing on the Empire State Building spire
A person proposing on the Empire State Building spirePhoto: foxnews
West Virginia couple charged after kids found in alleged 'house of horrors'
West Virginia couple charged after kids found in alleged 'house of horrors'Photo: foxnews
Frustrated Illinois residents seek to redraw state map in bid to break free from Chicago
Frustrated Illinois residents seek to redraw state map in bid to break free from ChicagoPhoto: foxnews

03

Attorney’s Position

He indicated that negotiations with the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office are nearing a possible plea agreement.

04

Potential Resolution and Upcoming Hearing

The defense and prosecutors are reportedly close to a deal that could resolve the slew of charges without a trial. The next scheduled court appearance is set for later this year, giving both sides additional time to finalize terms.

*The article reflects the factual record of the climb, the criminal charges filed, and the attorney’s publicly stated perspective, without inserting speculation about motives or outcomes.*