Berlin Court Rules Police 'Pain Grip' on Activist Unlawful

The court found the grip disproportionate in this case but noted its potential lawfulness in other contexts.

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.