Detention Extended: Suspects Show No Remorse in Brutal Hate Crimes

The pre-trial detention for twelve out of a total of around 20 suspects, who were partly arrested in the course of investigations into hate crimes, was extended in Graz. This was announced by the public prosecutor's office on Wednesday in response to an APA inquiry. On the morning of March 21, the police conducted house searches and arrests in seven federal states (excluding Carinthia and Vorarlberg). One suspect was released from pre-trial detention with conditions.

As a spokesperson for the Graz public prosecutor's office explained to the APA, the reasons for detention still exist for the one released person, but a release against milder measures was considered possible. The suspect had to make pledges, among other things, and must adhere to conditions. Meanwhile, the investigations would continue.

Beatings and Humiliation, but No Sign of Remorse

The group of perpetrators is said to have lured mainly men to meeting points under the pretense of a date and then partially beaten and humiliated them. Contrary to initial investigation findings, only about a third of the victims are likely to have homosexual tendencies. Some victims had their heads shaved or had to call close relatives and tell them about secret sex dates. The victims were also partially injured, robbed, and threatened with death. The majority of the suspects, aged 14 to 26, have so far mostly confessed. However, police sources also stated that remorse and awareness of wrongdoing were not evident among the suspects.

(APA/Red)

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