Prosecutors may appeal sentences for Amsterdam soccer attackers

Dutch prosecutors are studying the verdicts and jail sentences handed down to five men convicted of taking part in attacks on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans in Amsterdam, a spokesperson for the Public Prosecutor’s Office says.

The spokesperson says attorneys are unhappy with the court’s decision to treat one suspect, Lucas D., as a minor, giving the 19-year-old 100 hours of community service instead of jail time.

Prison terms for four other convicts, which range from one to six months, also fall short; the spokesperson says they may be appealed as well.

“We are looking at the number of months of prison sentence imposed compared to our demand,” the spokesperson are quoted saying in Dutch media.

Prosecutors had sought two years in jail for one man considered to be a leader of the rioters, who was seen on film violently assaulting soccer fans. Instead he was given six months. Another person who organized violence against Jews online was given 10 weeks in prison rather than the six months prosecutors asked for.

The sides have 14 days to appeal.