A defendant is only sentenced lightly and released from prison after the verdict. But he doesn’t like it at all.
Dortmund (dpa / lnw) – Curious scene at the Dortmund jury: instead of being happy that he was only mildly punished and even released from custody, a 48-year-old man was literally dismayed after his conviction. He lost his apartment and doesn’t know where to go now, the accused told the judges on Thursday. And: “I think it would really be better if I could stay in prison longer.”
Prosecutors originally charged the man with attempted murder and drug possession. In February 2022, the 48-year-old fatally injured an opponent in a park in Hamm with a knife. However, because a self-defence situation could not be ruled out, in the end all those involved pleaded for an acquittal regarding the bloody deed. In the verdict, the judges imposed 14 months in prison for the drug offense.
Because the 48-year-old had already served around half of this sentence in custody, the judges lifted the arrest warrant. As long as the judgment is not final, the man would have to continue to serve custody. And given that there are only seven months left, that can no longer be justified.
The judge finally stated in the direction of the accused: “I’m sorry, but I have to release you.” And he left the room shaking his head.
