22-Year-Old Falsely Defamed as Graz Rampage Shooter: The Verdict

The 22-year-old was mistakenly believed to be the perpetrator and branded as such on the internet in the days following the rampage last June due to a similar name - including by the 65-year-old, who took the name from other posts and mentioned it in a Facebook post. He was therefore charged with defamation.

Falsely Slandered as School Shooter: "I Posted It in the First Rage"

The retiree apologized in court. "I posted it in the first rage and hate," he said. On the same day, he realized the name was wrong and apologized to the 22-year-old. "I made a mistake. I stand by it."

The rampage at BORG Dreierschützengasse, in which nine students and a teacher were killed, affected him greatly - especially because he had just learned that he was going to be a grandfather. Due to his financial difficulties, the amount to be paid was set relatively low at 3,900 euros in installments.

Similar proceedings are currently pending throughout Austria. They concern posts on social networks in which the young Styrian appears with his name or photo and which essentially continue to spread the accusation that he is a multiple murderer. The 22-year-old wants to take action against the hatred he has experienced online.

(APA/Red.)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.