The District Court of Baden has convicted a 21-year-old Afghan national following a case involving the theft of a forgotten backpack and subsequent extortion attempts. The incident began three years ago when the man took a bag left behind by a woman on a train.
Extortion and Bitcoin Demands
Approximately one month after finding the backpack, the man contacted the owner via letter. He demanded a payment of 3,900 francs to be paid in Bitcoin.
The defendant threatened to sell the woman’s credit cards, identification, and private images on an online platform if the payment was not made. The backpack reportedly contained the woman’s wallet as well as suggestive photos of her and her boyfriend.
Police Investigation and House Search
The victim refused to pay and instead filed a police report. This led to the identification of the suspect and a subsequent house search.
During the search, authorities discovered prescription medications and three suspected forged medical prescriptions. Police as well found two videos that were classified as pedocriminal in nature.
Defense Arguments and Court Ruling
The defense argued that many of the allegations were baseless or lacked evidence. The defendant claimed he never encountered suggestive images and that the pedocriminal videos were created in a family context and sent only to the child’s mother.
the defense cited a hardship case, noting the man fled to Switzerland as a toddler and belongs to a minority persecuted by the Taliban, which would preclude a deportation order (Landesverweis).
Although the prosecution sought an eight-month prison sentence, a 1,600 franc fine, and a five-year deportation order, the judge largely accepted the defense’s arguments. The judge noted that many facts were not clearly established.
Final Sentence
The 21-year-old was found guilty of attempted extortion and a violation of the Narcotics Act. He received a conditional fine of 120 daily rates at 30 francs each, along with a 600 franc fine.
Given the court’s findings, the defendant may avoid further incarceration provided the conditions of the fine are met. His residency status could remain unaffected due to the recognized hardship regarding his origins.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the defendant demand from the victim?
The defendant demanded 3,900 francs in Bitcoin in exchange for not selling the victim’s ID, credit cards, and private images online.
What items were discovered during the house search?
Police found prescription medications, three suspected forged prescriptions, and two videos classified as pedocriminal.
What was the final penalty imposed by the court?
The court imposed a conditional fine of 120 daily rates of 30 francs and a fine of 600 francs.
How should the legal system balance the severity of alleged crimes against the personal hardship of the accused?
