A 31-year-old woman in Bern has been convicted and ordered to pay 1,500 Swiss francs after assaulting her roommate with a baseball bat and her fists. The victim sustained multiple injuries during the attack. This case highlights the legal consequences of domestic violence and the challenges faced by male victims.
Key Takeaways
- A 31-year-old woman attacked her roommate with a baseball bat and her fists.
- The victim suffered injuries to his wrist, thigh, and calf, along with scratches and bruises.
- The assailant was also caught traveling without a valid ticket.
- She received a fine of 900 francs and additional fees, totaling 1,500 francs.
- Studies indicate that male victims of domestic violence often face stigma and lack support.
Details of the Attack and Injuries
The incident took place in the city of Bern. The 31-year-old woman repeatedly struck her roommate with a baseball bat. The man suffered injuries to his wrist, thigh, and calf as a result of the assault.
In addition to the baseball bat, the woman also used her fists. She reportedly hit him in the back, choked him, and scratched him. The victim sustained several scratch wounds, a laceration, and multiple bruises, according to the Bern Canton Public Prosecutor's Office.
Fact: Victim Injuries
- Hand: Injuries to the wrist
- Leg: Injuries to the thigh and calf
- Body: Multiple scratch wounds, a laceration, and bruises
Legal Consequences and Fines
The Swiss woman was convicted by a penal order for bodily harm. She received a monetary penalty of 30 daily rates, each set at 30 francs, which amounts to a total of 900 francs. This type of penalty is common for less severe criminal offenses in Switzerland.
The incident was not the only offense committed by the woman. She was also caught traveling on public transport without a valid ticket, an offense commonly known as fare evasion. For this, she received an additional fine.
"The man suffered multiple scratch wounds, a laceration, and bruises, as stated in the penal order from the Public Prosecutor's Office of the Canton of Bern." - Bern Canton Public Prosecutor's Office
Total Financial Penalties
Beyond the 900-franc monetary penalty for the assault, the woman must pay court fees of 500 francs. She also received a separate fine of 100 francs for the fare evasion. The total amount she is required to pay is 1,500 Swiss francs.
During the police investigation, authorities found a baseball bat and five knives in her possession. These items were confiscated and later destroyed. The confiscation of weapons is a standard procedure in cases involving violence.
Understanding Penal Orders
In Switzerland, a penal order (Strafbefehl) is a simplified procedure for prosecuting minor to medium offenses. It allows the public prosecutor to impose a penalty without a full court hearing, provided the accused does not object. This process helps to streamline the justice system for less complex cases.
Challenges for Male Victims of Domestic Violence
This case also sheds light on a broader societal issue: domestic violence against men. According to various studies, men who are victims of domestic violence often face significant stigma. This stigma can make it difficult for them to report abuse or seek help.
Research indicates that male victims frequently do not receive adequate support. Societal norms and stereotypes can lead to disbelief or downplaying of their experiences. This lack of understanding can isolate victims and prevent them from accessing necessary services.
Statistical Insight
While specific statistics for Bern are not immediately available, global studies suggest that between one in three and one in six men experience some form of domestic abuse during their lifetime. However, reporting rates for male victims are significantly lower than for female victims.
Support for Victims of Violence
Regardless of gender, victims of violence can find support through various organizations. Resources are available to help individuals experiencing physical, psychological, sexual, or other forms of abuse. These services offer confidential advice, shelter, and legal assistance.
Organizations like Victim Support Switzerland provide crucial aid. They help victims navigate the legal system, offer psychological support, and connect individuals with safe housing options. Support is available for all demographics, including women, men, children, and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Available Resources for Victims in Switzerland
- Police: Contact local police departments in each canton for immediate assistance.
- Online Victim Counseling: Digital platforms offer confidential advice and support.
- Victim Support Switzerland: Provides comprehensive services for all victims of crime.
- Women's Counseling for Sexual Violence: Specialized support for female victims of sexual abuse.
- Lilli.ch: An online counseling service specifically for young people.
- Women's Shelters in Switzerland and Liechtenstein: Safe havens for women and children fleeing violence.
- Zwüschehalt: Protection shelters specifically for men who are victims of violence.
- LGBT+ Helpline: Offers support and advice for the LGBTQ+ community (Tel. 0800 133 133).
- Age Without Violence: Support for older adults experiencing abuse (Tel. 0848 00 13 13).
- Dargebotene Hand: A confidential helpline for people in distress (Tel. 143).
- Pro Juventute: Counseling for children and young people (Tel. 147).
These resources aim to ensure that all individuals affected by violence can access the help they need to recover and rebuild their lives. It is important for victims to know that they are not alone and that support is available.