Demonstration turns to theft in Lyon

On October 17, a demonstration in the center of Lyon turned violent when several businesses were targeted. A 21-year-old man entered a leather goods store on Place des Jacobins, where the display window had already been broken and others were inside.

No premeditation claimed by suspect

The young man took several bags from the store and later told investigators during a hearing that he had not planned his actions in advance. His 19-year-old friend was reportedly in charge of selling the stolen items online.

Attempt to sell stolen goods fails

The pair tried to profit from the stolen goods but were caught on October 22 at a parking lot in Villefranche-sur-Saône. Police, who had been informed of the meeting, intervened and arrested the two men.

Both admitted to their roles

The two childhood friends, who had been arrested, admitted to their roles in the theft. The 21-year-old was placed in provisional detention, while his 19-year-old accomplice, who was also charged with drug possession and transportation, appeared before the court freely.

Sentences include jail and community service

Both were sentenced to six months in prison with a two-year probation period. The older defendant’s charges were reclassified as theft from a warehouse, and he was also ordered to perform 105 hours of community service. The younger defendant received a care obligation, and both had their driver’s licenses suspended for three months as an additional penalty.