Berlin Court to Rule on Police 'Pain Grip' Used in Climate Protest
The decision, expected today, will determine the legality of the controversial tactic used during a 2023 sit-in by the 'Letzte Generation' group.
- The Berlin Administrative Court is reviewing whether the police's use of the 'pain grip' during a 2023 climate protest was lawful.
- The lawsuit was filed by climate activist Lars Ritter, who claims the grip caused him physical and emotional harm.
- Civil rights organizations GFF and RAZ are supporting the case, seeking to set limits on police practices during protests.
- Police describe the 'pain grip' as a standard technique for holding and transporting demonstrators who refuse to leave when instructed.
- The court's ruling, expected later today, could establish a precedent for managing non-violent protests in Germany.