The judicial proceedings against four residents of Sopela, accused of participating in a protest against a gaming hall, have been dismissed. The individuals faced potential prison sentences of eight years each and a collective fine of 112,400 euros. This outcome follows an agreement reached between the defendants and the establishment's owner, bringing an end to a five-year legal battle.
The events date back to the summer of 2021, amidst intense local mobilization against the expansion of betting establishments in the town. At that time, the gaming hall had significantly increased its floor area and the number of recreational machines. Protests highlighted a rise in gambling addiction issues, particularly affecting young people and vulnerable segments of society. This led to police intervention, including arrests, and the initiation of criminal proceedings against four residents, accused of protest acts and causing damage to the business.
Over these five years, the legal process was marked by numerous ups and downs. It was dismissed twice due to lack of evidence, and the Prosecutor's Office even withdrew, though the private prosecution kept the case alive. Despite this, the requested sentences, totaling 32 years in prison, remained. This situation generated considerable «uncertainty» and «personal strain» for those involved and close followers of the case, according to the neighborhood platform 4ekin1, formed in solidarity with the investigated individuals.
Today we can say that we have put an end to the nightmare.
Even the Sopela City Council expressed concern over what it considered «absolutely disproportionate» penalties. In this context, the platform supported the accused throughout the process and confirmed the agreement. This pact entails the withdrawal of charges and, consequently, the annulment of prison sentences and financial penalties. Platform spokespersons announced at a recent assembly: «Today we can say that we have put an end to the nightmare».
Following the resolution, the movement emphasized the importance of social response. «We have plenty of reasons to be happy and celebrate,» they stated. Citizen mobilization was «decisive in changing the course» of the proceedings, they claimed. «The call to build solidarity has been a resounding success,» they affirmed. Indeed, during this period, several demonstrations and informational assemblies were held. The last one, on January 31, saw hundreds of people take to the streets of Sopela in a festive atmosphere featuring music, dances, and a protest march. Under the slogan «we only accept acquittal,» residents stressed that what was at stake went beyond the future of these four individuals.
It is not only about this specific case, but about a broader issue: ensuring that no one's basic rights are violated is at stake.
At a press conference, they pointed out that «it is not only about this specific case, but about a broader issue: ensuring that no one's basic rights are violated is at stake.» They also warned of the danger of a conviction without evidence: «If they manage to imprison them, you or I could be next,» they lamented.
Despite the outcome, the movement insists that this situation should never have arisen. «It was unfair from beginning to end. It was a police setup,» they denounced, recalling how the threat of severe prison sentences grew into a real risk over the years. With the local issue resolved, the 4ekin1 collective has announced its support for other causes in the territory. Furthermore, part of the funds raised will be allocated to groups facing similar situations. They stated that social response is «key to preventing helplessness and strengthening a more just society».
