France's Fast-Track Trials Begin for Marseille Rioters After Nationwide Violence

French authorities have begun fast-track trials for rioters in Marseille following Saturday's nationwide violence, during which over 2,000 shops were stormed and looted. Seven suspects appeared in court Tuesday amid 2,400 arrests across France. The first defendant, 21-year-old Algerian Essedine Ch., was caught with a suitcase of stolen goods from a Monoprix supermarket. He claimed he was heading to a football match, but prosecutors sought one year in prison. The court sentenced him to six months suspended. Three other defendants were acquitted despite prosecutor demands for prison terms and bans from France. Three more suspects, including a repeat offender, were released pending trial. Critics say the lenient verdicts undermine deterrence as further unrest is expected Saturday.