Feb 10 • 07:53 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania 15min

The trial of the riots case has begun at the Vilnius District Court, several dozen convicted individuals did not appear

The trial regarding the riots has commenced at the Vilnius District Court, but numerous convicted individuals failed to attend the session.

The Vilnius District Court has launched proceedings in the high-profile riots case, which has been complicated by the large number of defendants and their lawyers, leading to the session starting approximately half an hour late. Due to these complexities, the case is being heard in two connected courtrooms utilizing video technology. It was reported that 24 out of the 87 convicted individuals did not attend the trial, with reasons ranging from illness to police unable to locate one individual at home.

In the earlier proceedings, the Vilnius City District Court convicted 84 defendants for their involvement in the riots, with the majority receiving suspended sentences. However, not all defendants were found guilty, as two were acquitted while the actions of a female defendant were reclassified from participation in riots to resisting police, leading to her receiving a non-custodial sentence. These outcomes highlight the court's efforts to address the serious nature of the events while balancing the legal rights of the defendants.

As the case progresses, the Vilnius District Court has received 67 appeals from the convicted individuals, showcasing the contentious nature of the case. The prosecution has also appealed the acquittal of one defendant, indicating a potential escalation in the legal battles surrounding the riots. This case remains significant in Lithuania, reflecting broader societal tensions and the rule of law in the wake of civil unrest.

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