He was addicted to gambling and demanded 412 euros in fines: Now a police officer and former football talent stood before the court in Leoben, Styria, for abuse of office. A long series of low blows led to his act.
A police officer from Styria had to answer to the jury in Leoben on Wednesday for 412 euros. A woman wanted to pay this fine imposed by the authorities directly at a police station. Instead of putting the money away properly, the officer put it in his own pocket and gave the ‘customer’ a false confirmation of payment.
Salaries are garnished
Judge Roman Weiß wanted to know why he did that. “My client is actually a good-hearted person who has gotten into enormous difficulties because of a dramatic life story,” said his lawyer Andreas Kleinbichler. The man, who was in therapy for his gambling addiction, wanted to use the 412 euros to finance the treatment of his beloved golden retriever. Further investments in his apartment and consumer goods worsened his financial situation and therefore his salary was seized for a while.
One low blow followed the next
The problems started at a young age: the upcoming U18 football talent almost signed with an Italian top club, but the deal fell through. Injuries followed, the frustration grew, the man started betting on sports and slot machines and kept losing there too. Nevertheless, the stake rose to 1000 euros.
As a 23-year-old police officer, he was dealt another heavy blow. His football career was just getting back on track when a gunshot wound ended it: after a mission, he returned to the state police headquarters, where a colleague next to him improperly fired an assault rifle. Three shots were fired and a ricochet hit him in the leg.
Now he has reached rock bottom. He wants to use the final verdict – eight months suspended – to get back on track with therapy and the support of his family.
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.
