Bans Act investigation against Styrian after public viewing incident
At a large-screen event in Fürstenfeld, a well-known internet star is alleged to have made the banned gesture during the playing of the national anthem.
Bans Act investigation against Styrian after public viewing incident
During a football broadcast in the city centre of Fürstenfeld, there was a police operation. Several people present contacted the authorities because they believed they had witnessed a criminal act during the Austrian national anthem.
The man under scrutiny from the authorities is a 39-year-old from Styria who works as an entertainer and is active on social networks. Witnesses stated that he had stood up during the song and made the banned gesture. The state police directorate confirmed the incident and brought in the constitutional protection service. Footage of the event exists and is currently being examined.
The accused denies the allegations. He acknowledged having drunk alcohol on the evening in question. Nevertheless, he claims: "I was only cheering, nothing else. That does not correspond to my conviction."
Should the suspicion be confirmed, the man faces trial before a jury court for breaching the Bans Act. Until then, the presumption of innocence applies.
The case also sheds light on the man's connections to the Freedom Party. Styrian state governor Mario Kunasek visited him last year to campaign. The influencer has a large reach on social media.
Source: Kleine Zeitung
Source: Kleine Zeitung