This archive report was first published on 20 June 2020.
Published on June 20, 2020, a prosecutor in Dijon, France, revealed that four suspects, including three Russians and a Frenchman of Russian origin, are facing charges in connection with three nights of violence.
The violence erupted after a 16-year-old Chechen boy was assaulted by inhabitants of the deprived Gresilles district, home to many people originally from North Africa.
Twenty people were injured in the fighting, two of them seriously, including one who was shot, according to prosecutor Eric Mathais.
Two men, a Russian and the Frenchman, have been charged with criminal association and intent, and with gathering to perpetrate violence and damage property, Mathais added.
They could be jailed for up to 10 years if convicted.
The other two suspects are to face the same charges in addition to aggravated violence and property damage, and could be held in custody.
Many cars were set on fire and security cameras were destroyed during the clashes.
"These people acknowledge being present during all or some of the events but deny taking part personally in the violence or causing damage," Mathais said.
