Many believe that the youths involved in the attack have migrant backgrounds and are being protected by the state.
Magdeburg, Germany – A brutal attack a week ago has left the community in shock and outrage. Three teenagers, aged 14, 14, and 16, brutally beat and kicked 33-year-old Steve Z., a trained reinforced concrete worker, leading to his death from severe head injuries four days later. Despite the severity of the attack, all three young killers remain free.
Judge’s Controversial Decision
The community’s anger is amplified by the judge’s decision not to issue arrest warrants for the teenagers. Senior public prosecutor Frank Baumgarten explained the judge’s reasoning to BILD: “The responsible investigating judge had not assumed any intent to kill, initially assessed the crime as joint dangerous bodily harm and therefore did not issue an arrest warrant under the stricter conditions for pre-trial detention of juveniles under Section 72 of the Juvenile Justice Act.”
In other words, despite the brutal nature of the attack, the judge deemed the teenagers too young for pre-trial detention, concluding that severe head injuries alone did not indicate intent to kill. As the investigation progresses, however, the Magdeburg public prosecutor’s office is considering a new request for arrest.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred at around 1:30 a.m. while Steve Z. was out walking his dog with his slightly mentally disabled friend, Frank, who lives in the same house. According to an acquaintance, Steve had a big heart and often helped people in need, including Frank. The teenagers attacked Steve when he tried to protect his friend.
Evidence and Investigation
BILD reports that evidence relevant to the case was secured during searches of the suspects’ apartments. A police spokeswoman confirmed that no stabbing or firearms were used in the attack. Additionally, a witness filmed the crime from his apartment, and the police have secured the video as part of their investigation.
Community’s Reaction
The public’s frustration is palpable. The suspects, who frequently met at a youth club near the crime scene, have been banned from the club for life following the incident. Friends and neighbors of Steve Z. are devastated by the loss of a man they describe as compassionate and protective.
The police have not released images of Steve Z., the victim, which has led to speculation and frustration within the community. Many believe that the youths involved in the attack have migrant backgrounds and are being protected by the state. This perception has fueled further outrage and calls for transparency and justice.
Calls for Justice
The case has sparked a broader debate about juvenile justice in Germany, with many calling for stricter measures to ensure that violent offenders, regardless of age or migration background, are held accountable. As the investigation continues, the community remains hopeful that justice for Steve Z. will be served.
For more details, refer to the original BILD article.
News Link: https://rairfoundation.com/outrage-germany-juvenile-killers-remain-free-after-kicking/