PARIS: A former boxer who became a hero to some of France's "yellow vest" protesters after being filmed punching police officers during a demonstration in Paris goes on trial Wednesday on charges that carry up to seven years in jail. The scene caused widespread outrage, with the government describing it as a prime example of the violence that has characterised the yellow vest demonstrations since they began in November. On Friday, a leading figure of the yellow vest movement, 33-year-old truck driver Eric Drouet, will also be tried on charges of illegally organising a demonstration in Paris. Some yellow vests argue that Dettinger's punches were just retribution for the police, who have been criticised for their liberal use of rubber bullets and stun grenades which have left dozens seriously injured. Around 10,000 people taking part in a rally in Paris last month to condemn "yellow vest" violence, during which the police were applauded.

Source: Bangkok Post February 13, 2019 09:33 UTC