Couple in Tongeren Face Jail Time for Alleged Assault on Police Officers
A couple from Tongeren, Belgium, are facing potential jail sentences following accusations of assaulting two police officers in 2020. The incident occurred in Riemst after police were called to intervene in a dispute. The verdict is expected on October 27th.
The Initial Incident and Conflicting Accounts
According to the officers' lawyer, the police responded to a disturbance involving the couple and a friend of their (step)son. The lawyer claims that the couple became aggressive towards the officers. "The man allegedly attempted to put an officer in a headlock, leading to a scuffle. The officers were reportedly kicked and punched, and the woman also allegedly resisted strongly," the lawyer stated.
Reinforcements were called to de-escalate the situation. Initially, the case was dismissed, prompting the officers to file a complaint as civil parties. This action brought the case before the court on Monday.
The Couple's Defense: Allegations of Police Aggression
The couple denied the accusations in court, claiming that the police officers were the aggressors. The 70-year-old man testified, "One of the officers slammed my wife against the car, and I sustained a black eye and two bruised ribs." He admitted to grabbing one of the officers, explaining he was protecting his wife, who is a back patient with a history of surgeries. Their lawyer argues that the police used disproportionate force and seeks their acquittal.
Prosecution's Stance and Sentencing Request
The prosecutor from Tongeren is seeking an eight-month prison sentence for the man and a three-month sentence for the woman, both with full probation. "The injuries sustained by the officers have been objectively verified," the prosecutor stated, "and I refer to the defendant's admission in court that he grabbed the officer. Violence against the police cannot be tolerated." The prosecutor emphasized the importance of upholding the law and ensuring the safety of law enforcement officers.
Upcoming Verdict
The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict in this case on October 27th. The outcome will determine whether the couple will face imprisonment for their alleged assault on the police officers.
