To Kaganovich.

I have learned about the arrest and expulsion from the Party of the chief of armored forces of the Belorussian Military District, Korneev. He is accused of killing a thief -- a collective farmer -- who broke into his home at night to rob him. I know Korneev as a good Party member and an excellent commander with great service to the republic. I do not believe he would have permitted himself hooliganism and vigilante justice. It seems to me that they were too hasty with the arrest and expulsion from the Party. I fear that Aronshtam wants to distinguish himself in this case. I ask you to requisition the materials and transfer the case to the CC for review with my participation.

Stalin

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Source: Stalin and Kaganovich. Correspondence. 1931-1936, p. 277.

RGASPI. F. 558. Op. 11. D. 78. L. 145, 145 verso.