European Championship game Serbia – Denmark: Court sentences football fan to two years probation after riot

After riots by Serbian football fans on the sidelines of a European Championship game in München The district court sentenced a 25-year-old to a suspended prison sentence of two years. The defendant tearfully confessed to throwing a table and glass bottles at police officers before the European Championship game between Serbia and Denmark. He apologized to a police officer who had been injured by his throws and was testifying in court.

Several police officers were slightly injured during the riots on Marienplatz in June. According to prosecutors, a police checkpoint got out of control after some fans set off pyrotechnics. The situation escalated when several fans expressed solidarity with a man suspected of being involved in the incidents.

“Shadows on the good times”

In her verdict, the judge said: “With their behavior they have already cast a shadow on this beautiful time.” The man was convicted of particularly serious breach of the peace, grievous bodily harm and insult. The accusation of condoning crimes was rejected as not proven. He had worn the Russian propaganda symbol “Z” on his clothing but claimed not to have known the meaning. Since both the prosecution and defense chose not to appeal, the verdict became final in the courtroom.

This trial is not the only one dealing with the June 25 riots. The district court has scheduled two further hearings for Friday.