French court hears case of demonstrator

A long line of defendants appeared in French courts on Monday for immediate appearance hearings, with individuals arrested during demonstrations or violent incidents across the country on Saturday being judged.

Nîmes demonstrator throws stones at police

In Nîmes, the first defendant of the afternoon had a particular profile. He was detained after throwing stones at law enforcement on Saturday around 5 p.m., when 300 young people gathered to confront authorities, chanting "Acab" and "everyone hates the Police."

Demonstrators attack police for over half an hour

The events occurred near the 7 Hills shopping center and the Nîmes West roundabout. The young people launched projectiles at law enforcement for more than half an hour. The defendant, who was not known to the judiciary, is accused of injuring a police officer by throwing a stone weighing 369 grams and 10 centimeters long.

Defendant is a trainee teacher

The defendant, a 24-year-old man with a bachelor's degree and five years of study, is a trainee teacher at a public middle school in Nîmes. He stated during the hearing that he had not intended to hit the police and did not know the demonstrators would oppose the police forces.

Defendant supports yellow vests movement

He expressed support for high school students and teachers, noting the public service is deteriorating, and stated he is close to the yellow vests movement and the fight for purchasing power. The man had been held for 39 hours since Saturday evening and was equipped with a bicycle helmet, a surgical mask, and swimming goggles.

Prosecutor seeks 18-month sentence

The prosecutor is requesting 18 months in prison, one year of which must be served, as well as a five-year ban from public service. Maître Lauriane Delesinger, acting as a civil party, stated the group was there to break police officers.

Defendant’s lawyer argues for leniency

Maître Hugo Ferri, the defendant's lawyer, argued the prosecution was trying to send a strong message and requested a path of justice for a young man who "had never spoken up before Saturday's escalation." The court heard the plea, and the defendant, who had just filled out a file to be a "reserve police officer," escaped a mandatory prison sentence.

Court sentences defendant to probation

He was sentenced to 18 months in prison with a two-year probationary suspension. The Nîmes jurisdiction also dismissed the ban on holding a public position, which should allow him to continue his teaching career. However, it is unlikely that his application to be a reserve police officer will be accepted by the administration.