The Court ruled that the Commission neglected its duties as outlined in Article 85 (1) of the Treaty.

Urgent Interim Measure: Knife Carrying Ban Confirmed for a 22-Year-Old Resident of Dortmund by the Administrative Court of Gelsenkirchen (Case No. 0797)

, and ASMedia

2025 September 20 . 5:36 AM

2 min read

Court rules Commission falls short in meeting obligations stated under Article 85 (1) of the... — Court rules Commission falls short in meeting obligations stated under Article 85 (1) of the Treaty.

The Court ruled that the Commission neglected its duties as outlined in Article 85 (1) of the Treaty.

The Dortmund Police Department has taken a significant step in its efforts to reduce violence in public spaces, with the implementation of a three-year ban on carrying knives and certain dangerous items in public, effective from May 2025. This ban is a key component of the Dortmund Police's comprehensive security concept and is designed to prevent knife crimes.

The ban, which remains in effect as of September 15, 2025, is a tool in the Dortmund Police's arsenal to combat violent crimes. A fine of 250 euros is imposed for the first violation of this ban, and the fine increases to 500 euros for repeated violations. Non-compliance with the ban may also result in imprisonment.

The Dortmund Police Department's knife-carrying bans are a proactive measure to ensure public safety. As of August 2025, there are 198 knife-carrying bans in effect within the jurisdiction of the Dortmund Police. Since the implementation of these bans, 47 violations have been detected by deployment forces. However, as of September 15, no specific information is available regarding individuals who have received personal bans for carrying knives or similar objects in public.

The Dortmund Police Department's knife-carrying bans are a significant part of their strategy to reduce violence in public spaces. They are also a part of their broader approach to maintaining public order. During controls, 173 individuals were found who, although subject to a ban, were not carrying a knife or any other dangerous object at the time of the check.

The ban is just one aspect of the Dortmund Police Department's comprehensive security concept to combat violence in public spaces. The concept includes a range of measures aimed at ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for all citizens and visitors. In the first half of 2025, the number of crimes involving knives or similar objects has decreased, suggesting that the ban is having a positive impact.

The Dortmund Police Department's knife-carrying bans are part of their ongoing efforts to combat knife crime. The police department continues to work closely with the community, local businesses, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of these efforts and to make Dortmund a safer place for everyone.