Hesselt (Brussels Morning) – During a festival in Kiewit a 40-year-old man stole a bucket of tickets while drunk and was sentenced to 70 hours of community work and a fine of €800.
During a festival in Kiewit on August 19, 2022 two guys ordered burgers at a food stall. While the worker turned around to prepare the food the men swiped a bucket full of tickets that were the day’s earnings. The stall owner couldn’t stop them as they escaped with the tickets.One thief stood out wearing a unique T-shirt with Eric Cartman from “South Park” and the words “I’m not fat, I’m big boned.” Later that night a festival security guard recognized the thief described by the caterer and informed the police.
What are the consequences for stealing at festivals?
The 40-year-old guy showed his ID to the police when they questioned him. They found 195 tickets with him. Even though he admitted having a partner he said he couldn’t remember who it was. As a result he was the only one found guilty of the theft. The guy admitted he did wrong because he was really drunk. He said the ticket box looked easy to grab so he took it without thinking. Even though he confessed and was ready to face the consequences he pointed out that being drunk was a significant factor. The judge didn’t feel sorry for the guy. The judge said being drunk wasn’t a good reason for what he did. The judge mentioned that being drunk didn’t mean he wasn’t responsible because he chose to drink. The excuse of being drunk didn’t help him get a lighter punishment.
The guy has to do 70 hours of community work or else he might go to jail for five months. He also got fined 800 euros and has to pay around 320 euros for legal stuff. The court thinks he took about 2,650 receipts, and he owes the caterer almost 5,000 euros. He might have to go back to court later to figure out more payments for the festival.
Limburg is the place to be for summer festivals. Pukkelpop kicks things off with great music and a fun vibe. Genk on Stage offers a mix of music styles in a beautiful setting. Electronic music fans will love Extrema Outdoor with top DJs in nature. Theater op de Markt in Hasselt has captivating shows in the city streets.
