A 19-year-old man, along with an accomplice, attempted to break into a restaurant in downtown Bern this past August. The incident resulted in significant property damage and led to a police chase, culminating in the apprehension of the suspects.
Key Takeaways
- A 19-year-old man caused 11,000 Swiss francs in damage during a restaurant break-in attempt in Bern.
- Police arrested the suspect and an accomplice after a brief pursuit.
- The man was in Switzerland illegally, having failed to leave after a previous deportation order.
- He received a conditional sentence of 120 days and a fine of 800 Swiss francs.
Bern Restaurant Targeted in August
The attempted burglary took place in August in Bern's city center. The 19-year-old, identified as a Moroccan national, acted with another individual. They reportedly smashed a glass pane on the restaurant's entrance door.
Following this, the two men forcibly opened the door to gain entry into the establishment. This act of vandalism and forced entry caused substantial damage to the property.
Damage Incurred
The structural damage to the restaurant's entrance door and property is estimated at approximately 11,000 Swiss francs.
Police Response and Pursuit
The break-in did not go unnoticed. Local police officers quickly arrived at the scene. Their presence startled the two suspects, who then attempted to flee.
Despite repeated calls of "Stop Police" from the officers, the men initially continued their escape attempt. However, law enforcement personnel managed to pursue and apprehend both individuals shortly after.
"The rapid response of the police was crucial in preventing further damage and apprehending the suspects quickly," a police spokesperson noted.
Illegal Stay and Prior Offenses
During the investigation, authorities discovered that the 19-year-old suspect was in Switzerland unlawfully. He had entered the country without a valid visa or travel documents. Furthermore, he had not complied with a previous deportation order, meaning he had remained in Switzerland illegally.
This was not his first encounter with the law. His illegal presence in the country compounded the severity of the new charges.
Immigration Law in Switzerland
Individuals who enter Switzerland without proper documentation or who overstay their visas are subject to the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act. Violations can lead to fines, deportation, and criminal charges.
Legal Consequences and Sentencing
The Public Prosecutor's Office of the Canton of Bern issued a penal order against the 19-year-old. He faced multiple charges, including attempted theft, property damage, obstruction of official acts, and violating the Foreign Nationals and Integration Act.
The court sentenced him to a conditional prison term of 120 days. This means he will only serve the sentence if he commits another crime within the next two years. In addition to the conditional sentence, he must pay 800 Swiss francs in procedural fees.
- Charges: Attempted theft, property damage, obstruction of official acts, violation of immigration law.
- Sentence: 120-day conditional prison sentence.
- Financial Penalty: 800 Swiss francs in procedural fees.
Information regarding the legal fate of the accomplice has not been released. The authorities continue to monitor such incidents to maintain public safety and uphold legal standards within the city.