After a legal dispute over who was to blame for a traffic accident, two Viennese pensioners became enemies. That’s why four Thujen had to believe in it. The confrontation in the criminal court will probably not be the last between the two disputers.
A thuja hedge, salt and two quarreling pensioners. In the Vienna Regional Court on Thursday, Mathias Funk played more of a mediator than a judge. Mr S. and Mr D. have a common history: the two men were involved in a traffic accident – one on a scooter, the other on a motorcycle. Both denied guilt, a civil judge had to decide in April 2023 and found Mr S. right.
The civil judgment was not enough for the retiree
But that probably wasn’t enough for the 70-year-old. He repeatedly threw road salt into the trees of the man two years younger than him. “The trees have withered,” Mr. D. complains in the witness box. Because little by little, part of his hedge died.
“Why do you hold such a grudge against the man if you won the legal dispute?” asks Judge Funk. ‘I just don’t think it’s fair to treat someone like that. I just wanted to annoy him,” admits the defendant, who is accused of serious property damage.
Probably not the last meeting in court
Ultimately, damage was found on four trees. Mr. S. is willing to pay 752 euros for it. Much to the 68-year-old’s dismay, he wants his entire hedge replaced – which would mean cutting down 30 trees and burying new ones.
But that is enough compensation for the judge, he classifies the case as simple material damage and offers Mr. S. a diversion – which he gratefully accepts. The two retirees are likely to meet again in a civil case involving the Thujen…
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
