Security in courts - More hits at court checks in Saxony
Security checks at entrances to Saxony's courts and prosecution offices are increasing again after a slump due to the coronavirus. In 2022, a total of 20,509 potentially dangerous everyday objects were discovered, a rise of almost 2,900 compared to 2022 and around 6,900 compared to 2021. The restricted visitor traffic during the pandemic halved the annual total from 2020, and in 2021 it was less than a third of the pre-coronavirus level.
Knives and pepper sprays were particularly prevalent in 2022. A total of 7,381 knives were found, 640 fewer than in 2022, including 71 that were considered weapons under the Weapons Act. Security personnel also confiscated 1,253 pepper sprays, five brass knuckles, larger stones, fireworks, and glass shards. Such dangerous items are stored and returned when leaving the building - even items like nail files, bike locks, tools, or corkscrews.
Security measures were tightened after a murder in a courtroom in 2009. Following the fatal stabbing of an Egyptian woman, Marwa El-Sherbini, at the Dresden Regional Court, Saxony invested several million euros in court security and reinforced access controls, including mobile hand-held scanners, turnstiles, and additional staff. The crime sparked nationwide outrage, protests in the Islamic world, and a debate about court security. Since then, security checks have been conducted regularly at regional courts and justice centers, and occasionally at smaller local courts, using metal detectors. The security concept for courts and prosecution offices has been revised and expanded, and the bailiff service has been reinforced and better equipped.
The increase in discovered dangerous objects at Saxony's courts and prosecution offices in 2022 underscores the necessity for continued vigilance in upholding [Justice]. The revised and expanded security concept is a testament to the commitment to ensuring a safe environment where justice can be served efficiently.
