A court in southeastern Poland sentenced a 38-year-old man to eight months in prison for making death threats against Jerzy Owsiak, the founder and head of the country’s largest charity.
Owsiak, a household name in Poland, is the public face of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity (WOŚP), known for funding medical and humanitarian aid.
The organization has faced growing scrutiny from right-wing media, with some critics accusing Owsiak — who is disliked by some conservatives due to his liberal views — of using his organization for personal gain.
Owsiak has countered such claims by publishing detailed financial reports and he insists that the charity operates transparently.
The defendant, identified as Tomasz P., posted threats on Facebook in January, offering 100,000 złoty (about €24,000) for Owsiak’s assassination. He also posted calls for violence against Owsiak and others, prompting an investigation by authorities.
During questioning, he admitted to making the threats, explaining that his anger stemmed from negative online discussions about Owsiak’s wealth and lifestyle. He was arrested shortly after posting the threats and remained in custody throughout the proceedings.
The court found him guilty of issuing criminal threats and publicly inciting murder.
The sentence is subject to appeal.
Founded in 1993, WOŚP annually raises millions for medical equipment and aid, especially for sick children. In 2025, the charity notched up a record tally of 289 million złoty (about €69 million), which will go towards pediatric hematology and oncology care in Poland.
