Graz synagogue attackers confess in court

by time news

In August 2020, a 32-year-old threw stones at the Graz synagogue and threatened the head of the Jewish community with a wooden stick. He had to answer in the criminal district court on Thursday for serious damage to property, coercion, attempted serious bodily harm and resistance to state violence. According to the prosecutor, his aversion was not only directed against Jews, but also against homosexuals and prostitutes.

The Syrian came to Austria in 2013. “Driven by hatred of Jews, gays and prostitutes, it damaged the Graz synagogue, various bars, buildings and a church,” the public prosecutor explained. The 32-year-old raged in Graz from 18 to 22 August 2020. As he was throwing stones at the synagogue, the head of the Jewish community, Elie Rosen, came with a companion. The defendant then took a wooden stick and attacked the men. He yelled at them to get back in the car, which they did. The angry attacker did not injure anyone, but damaged the vehicle. He then fled, but was soon caught. While in custody, he attacked prison guards several times, severely injuring one of the head and arm.

At the trial he was closely guarded by three men, but he was very peaceful and cooperative. “I’ll admit everything I’ve done,” he hastened to assure himself from the start. “I regret everything,” he said. “Why?” Asked the judge bluntly. “You have to be peaceful with one another, I won’t do that anymore”. “Why should we believe you?” The chairwoman asked. “I only have problems with the Jews in Palestine, I have no hatred of Jews in general,” the accused tried to explain. With his actions he wanted to “send a message”.

The psychiatric expert Manfred Walzl certified the Syrian a “fanatical, paranoid personality disorder”. According to his prognosis, the 32-year-old would continue to be prone to acts of violence, so he spoke out in favor of an institution for mentally abnormal lawbreakers. “He absolutely needs inpatient psychotherapy, it has not even begun,” the reviewer described.

Since the defendant confessed extensively, most of the witnesses were dispensed with. Elie Rosen had already stated in advance that the damage to the synagogue and the company car had been settled, so he would not come.

A verdict from the aldermen’s senate was expected in the early afternoon.

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