Protesters took to the streets of Grasse yesterday after prosectors recommended suspended sentences for police involved in the death of a Tunisian man in 2008. A group of around 40 people were demanding justice for victim Hakim Ajimi.
During the four day trial, the courts examined in detail the twenty minutes that led to the death by asphyxiation of the 22-year-old Tunisian man in 2008. Yesterday, Grasse Criminal Court prosecutors requested suspended jail sentences for the seven police officers involved.
When Hakim’s family heard the prosecutor's decision, they stormed out of the court and, supported by around 40 protesters outside of the court, the family held demonstrations down the main street of Grasse with banners and signs demanding for a tougher sentence.
"I do not want to listen to their lies. The facts are there, the experts have spoken, the autopsy has been done, and witnesses have given their opinions. It's a farce," Hakim’s father Boubaker Ajimi, told the media.
Hakim Ajimi resisted arrest and assaulted a police officer on 9th May 2008, then was handcuffed and held face down on the ground in a standard police hold that involves restraint to the chest and neck. Witnesses claim that Hakim’s face turned purple and it was obvious that he was having difficulties breathing. The victim was transferred to a police car and taken to the Grasse station where he arrived in a ‘poor condition’, according to police testimony.
Whether Hakim died before or after he arrived at the police station is an issue of debate. Medical reports showed that his death was caused by ‘positional asphyxia’ due to prolonged pressure being applied on his neck and chest.
Two police offers from the BAC (Brigade Anti Criminalité) are charged with involuntary manslaughter, and five policemen are accused of failing to assist a person in danger.
Defense lawyer Joël Blumenkranz told the media on Thursday, "Emotion is natural for the Ajimi family. But emotion does not make a right.”
A verdict is expected to be delivered on the 24th February.
Louise Kirby