Strasbourg experienced alarming urban violence just days before New Year’s Eve, prompting local authorities to issue strong statements defending judicial actions against the perpetrators. The interim prosecutor, Alexandre Chevrier, held press briefings addressing rising tensions resulting from episodes of violence.
Recent reports revealed troubling incidents leading up to the celebration, with many youth, some as young as 12, engaged in pyrotechnic assaults against police officers and firefighters. Chevrier articulated his frustrations with the persistent criticism about judicial responses coming from police unions, emphasizing the complexity of establishing solid evidence for the prosecutorial process.
On December 31, Chevrier stated, "If several measures of police custody were lifted without immediate judicial follow-up, it was precisely due to insufficient evidence against the individuals concerned." The interim prosecutor's remarks came as state officials, including Jacques Witkowski, the prefect of Grand-Est and Bas-Rhin, confirmed the involvement of around thirty minors implicated in the urban unrest.
Witkowski clarified, "These minors do not seek confrontation but instead engage in actions like burning vehicles and setting up flaming barricades using trash bins." He pointed out the dispersal of violence across various neighborhoods, indicating this is not limited to isolated areas.
The local police force ramped up their response with mobile units, including the specialized CRS 8, intended to counter urban violence effectively. "We are mobilizing extensive resources to re-establish public order," Witkowski elaborated, stressing the efficacy of rapid deployment units for maintaining peace amid sporadic disturbances.
Despite the controversy surrounding judicial leniency toward young offenders, Chevrier reaffirmed a commitment to stringent legal follow-ups for offenses characterized by violence. Reports indicated several arrests following confrontations during December 26 and 28, with two teenagers aged 15 and 17 referred to the judiciary after launching pyrotechnics at police during the aforementioned dates.
The prosecutor insisted upon specific protocols when dealing with young offenders since minors under 16 cannot be placed under temporary detention. This legal framework introduces challenges within the investigation and prosecution processes, often resulting in delayed legal proceedings.
Security measures across Strasbourg have been intensified for New Year’s Eve celebrations, focusing on preventing any escalation of violence. Authorities announced the deployment of over 100,000 police and gendarmes nationwide, with local law enforcement taking extra precautions against potential incendiary acts.
Local officials have initiated curfews for minors, simplified border checks, and placed trash bins under surveillance to prevent them from being used to stage fires. Witkowski emphasized collaborative efforts with the judicial authorities to prioritize safety during this sensitive period.
While the situation remains precarious, local authorities are optimistic about maintaining the peace. Chevrier concluded, "The Strasbourg prosecutor's office remains mobilized and will prioritize firm and immediate responses to characterized offenses.”
With New Year’s celebrations approaching, both the authorities and community members hope for safe festivities unmarred by violence, emphasizing the need for unity and resilience as they advance through this turbulent period.