Overview

• The Berlin Administrative Court ruled that the police's use of a 'pain grip' on climate activist Lars Ritter during a 2023 sit-in was unlawful and disproportionate.
• The court emphasized that the lawfulness of such grips depends on the specific circumstances, leaving room for their use in other situations.
• Lars Ritter argued that the police's actions were excessive, causing him prolonged shoulder pain and degrading treatment, which the court partially affirmed.
• The lawsuit was supported by civil rights groups aiming to establish clearer limits on the use of such police tactics during protests.
• The decision is not legally binding, and further legal proceedings may be pursued by either party.