Overview

• Major Jackie D., 54, appeared before the Tribunal correctionnel de Paris on a charge of involuntary injuries stemming from a 24 November 2018 grenade throw on a Champs-Élysées roundabout.
• He testified he threw a GLIF4 to push back aggressors and protect colleagues, saying he aimed between police and demonstrators; the device was described as containing 25 grams of explosive that produces a deafening effect, a shockwave and tear gas.
• He acknowledged nightfall, thick tear gas and poor visibility, gave no verbal warning and did not announce the throw on the radio, citing an overloaded channel.
• Victim Gabriel Pontonnier lost a hand and says he has undergone about 25 surgeries and suffered severe personal and family consequences.
• The ministère public told the court the shot was legitimate, necessary and proportionate despite the disastrous outcome, and asked for acquittal.