A German court in Zweibrücken sentenced a 26-year-old man to 10 years in prison for fatally attacking a train conductor during a ticket inspection in the western state of Rhineland-Palatinate five months ago. The court found that the man, who was caught without a ticket, struck the conductor with such force that the conductor later died from a brain haemorrhage. The assailant was convicted of causing bodily harm resulting in death.
The victim’s family, who did not attend the verdict and sentencing hearing, had sought charges of manslaughter or murder. Their lawyer announced prior to the verdict that they plan to appeal both the conviction and the sentence.
The incident, which was recorded by cameras on the regional express train, has sparked a debate in Germany about improving safety on trains. In response, national railway operator Deutsche Bahn announced plans to equip conductors and onboard restaurant staff with bodycams to enhance security.
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