“Theories presented in the media attempting to dismiss a causal link between the unlawful and traumatic interrogation of the late Barbara Skrzypek and the subsequent tragedy are false”, stated MP Zbigniew Ziobro.
A press conference was held today at the headquarters of the Law and Justice (PiS) party in Warsaw regarding the death of Barbara Skrzypek. Former Minister of Justice Zbigniew Ziobro highlighted that a certain narrative had emerged in the wake of her tragic passing, suggesting that her death had no connection to the highly stressful interrogation she endured, despite multiple legal violations, simply because it occurred 2.5 days after the questioning.
“In light of scientific knowledge, which the investigating authority should rely upon, this claim is false. There is undeniable scientific evidence from empirical studies conducted in prestigious research institutions worldwide, including Harvard University, showing that severe stress can have profound physiological consequences. For an elderly and ill person, such stress can trigger fatal events like a heart attack occurring days after a traumatic incident,” Ziobro explained.
He further emphasized that “many highly respected scientific institutions have demonstrated, beyond any doubt, a direct causal link between extreme stress and subsequent heart attacks occurring days later.”
Concerns Over Post-Mortem Examination
Ziobro also raised concerns about the autopsy ordered by the prosecution without the involvement of Skrzypek’s family. “As part of forensic examinations, histopathological and tissue studies are typically conducted to determine the exact timing of a heart attack. However, the prosecution has not shared these results with us. Given that they proceeded with the autopsy while preventing the family’s participation, and since they have selectively disclosed some findings, I believe it is essential to ask when the first symptoms of Skrzypek’s heart attack appeared. This crucial information has not yet been provided,” he stated.
“Serious Legal Violations”
Ziobro also pointed out what he described as serious breaches of the law in the handling of the investigation. “The fact that this case was reopened and assigned to Prosecutor Wrzosek, despite a previous court ruling rejecting the investigation, is a clear violation of legal procedures. Under Polish law, such decisions are the prerogative of the National Prosecutor, yet the only legally appointed National Prosecutor has been unlawfully sidelined for months. This is not just a breach of the law but a criminal act committed by those currently in power. These actions, as highlighted by President Kaczyński, have led to further severe legal violations,” he said.
Flaws in Interrogation Records
Ziobro also criticized the official transcript of Skrzypek’s interrogation, noting significant omissions. “The document does not record a break that reportedly occurred during the questioning—something we only learned about through prosecution statements and opposing counsel’s comments. There is no mention of it in the official record,” he noted.
“This interrogation was such a harrowing ordeal that it ultimately led to Barbara Skrzypek’s death. It is a tragedy beyond words. What we are witnessing is the result of abuses of power, legal manipulations, and political interests being placed above the rule of law. Those responsible are acting on behalf of the current government, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Minister Adam Bodnar. This has nothing to do with justice—it bears all the hallmarks of an organized criminal operation controlling Poland’s legal system today,” Ziobro concluded.