On the sidelines of the tragic fire on New Year’s Eve in the Sternbar in Graz, which claimed one life, there was an argument between a 34-year-old and the police. The man ended up in court on Friday for this. The judge spoke of an “exceptional situation” and offered him a diversion.
“He can’t understand why he, who behaved in the best possible way, is sitting here,” said Gunther Ledolter, the defense attorney for the 34-year-old man who had to answer in the regional criminal court on Friday for resisting state authority. His client had been celebrating with friends in the restaurant when the fire suddenly broke out. He not only helped his fallen partner back on her feet, but also several other people “and probably saved their lives,” said the lawyer. The police officer punched him in the face. Outside, the 34-year-old then tried to kick in a door so that the People were able to escape from the burning restaurant. “Then the memory is lost, suddenly he is on the ground,” described the defender. According to the police, he behaved aggressively and finally grabbed one of the officers by the arms, whereupon the officer gave him a punch. The man from Graz did not feel guilty. “I believe that there was an exceptional situation,” the judge gave him credit. So, exceptionally, he offered him a diversion. A fine of 5,400 euros must be paid, then the case is over – provided the public prosecutor has no objection. The accused thanked him and accepted.
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