Paris court processes dozens of riot trials in tense atmosphere

Dozens of immediate appearance trials were held Tuesday at the Paris judicial court following Saturday's riots, with the justice system operating under intense pressure and scrutiny. The court processed around 60 cases in a single afternoon, using four courtrooms instead of the usual two. Paris accounted for 35% of France's 2,400 arrests on October 17, creating chaotic conditions as magistrates and lawyers juggled cases. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin demanded firmness, prompting defense lawyers to accuse him of political interference. Several defendants received jail sentences, including a 20-year-old armed with a knife and a Tunisian man who threw projectiles at police. Some defendants claimed police brutality or group mentality during looting, while lawyers argued procedures were flawed. The court also placed suspects under judicial supervision, with prosecutors seeking detention in most cases.