Dispute over wages leads to gunfire: Defendant explains resorting to self-protection - Wage disagreement escalates into gunfire incident, accused claims it was in defense
A 49-year-old businessman is standing trial at Berlin's Regional Court, accused of shooting a 23-year-old during a wage dispute. The incident occurred on October 18, 2023, in Berlin-Weißensee. The defendant, a Turkish national, had taken a pistol and a magazine containing 15 rounds, for which he had no permit, before the confrontation. He allegedly retrieved the weapon prior to the meeting, as threats had been made over the phone. The shooting took place in the defendant's office during a dispute over a few hundred euros in unpaid wages to a 53-year-old driver. The defendant reportedly held the pistol towards the ceiling when the father and son arrived at the office. According to the prosecution, the defendant fired several shots at the younger man from close range during the confrontation. The 23-year-old sustained life-threatening injuries and his right arm remains largely paralyzed. The defendant stated at the trial's outset that his intention was 'to defend against an attack.' However, the prosecution accuses him of dangerous and severe bodily harm, as well as violating the Weapons Act. The public prosecutor's office demands a suspended prison sentence of ten months, a fine of 60 daily rates, and a penalty against the defendant. There is also mention of previous accusations related to forgery, embezzlement, and fraud, but it is not explicitly stated whether he has been previously convicted. The company owner was arrested after the incident and spent until early January 2024 in pre-trial detention. The first witness, the 53-year-old, stated that he only demanded what was rightfully owed to him. The younger man punched the defendant in the face during the confrontation, which may have escalated the situation. The trial will continue on September 22. It is a reminder of the dangers that can arise from unresolved disputes, and the importance of resolving them peacefully and legally.
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