Bailiffs Gear Up with Vests and Pepper Spray for Self-Defense
In an effort to protect themselves during their risky day-to-day tasks, bailiffs in North Rhine-Westphala will be equipped with protective vests and pepper spray this year. This announcement comes from Justice Minister Benjamin Limbach of the Greens party, who cited delivery issues and high demand from the Bundeswehr after the Russian invasion of Ukraine as part of the delay. The state is investing €400,000 in vests for the bailiffs, Limbach shared.
The legal complications regarding the use of pepper spray have now been resolved, as stated by Limbach, who confirmed that they will acquire the same model used by the NRW police. While these protective measures won't be mandatory, they will be available for bailiffs to use.
Frank Neuhaus, head of the NRW bailiffs' association, expressed his pleasure at the development. He mentioned that the aggressiveness in enforcement activities has been escalating, with an increase in problem evictions by "Reichsbürger" being a significant concern. Neuhaus's association has been advocating for protective vests since 2017, and they welcome this long-awaited change.
Bailiffs in other regions, including the Ruhr area, are also expected to receive similar protective equipment, according to local news sources. The police in Düsseldorf have praised this decision, as they often face similar situations, and believe that the vests and pepper spray provide an extra layer of safety. Additionally, many bailiffs who work in North Rhine-Westphalia, including those in Düsseldorf and the Ruhr area, have expressed their willingness to use the new equipment.
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As for other German regions planning to adopt such protective measures, there is currently no specific information available in the sources provided. Staying informed through official announcements from relevant German authorities – such as those responsible for law enforcement and judicial attire – is the best way to receive the most recent and accurate updates.
