Anders Behring Breivik Sentenced for Attacks
August 24th, 2012
August 24th, 2012
How Long Ago?
12 years, 6 months, 18 days ago
Location
Oslo, Norway
Category
Crime & Law
People
- Anders Behring Breivik
- Judge Wenche Elizabeth Arntzen
Links & References
Tags
Anders Behring Breivik Sentenced for Attacks
Anders Behring Breivik was sentenced to 21 years of preventive detention by a Norwegian court for his responsibilities in the deadly attacks in Norway. The judgment followed his confession to killing 77 people on July 22, 2011, primarily at a youth camp on the island of Utøya, and through a car bomb in Oslo. The court deemed Breivik to be sane, rejecting his defense of mental illness while reinforcing the severity of his crimes against the state and humanity. This case captured international attention regarding terrorism and extreme right-wing ideologies.
Breivik killed 77 people in 2011 attacks.
Sentence includes 21 years of preventive detention.
Court deemed Breivik mentally sane during trial.
Trial raised international awareness of extremism.
What Happened?
In a highly publicized trial, Anders Behring Breivik faced the Norwegian court for his role in two attack incidents that shook the nation. The attacks, which occurred on July 22, 2011, were marked by a bombing in Oslo that resulted in eight fatalities followed by a mass shooting at a Workers' Youth League camp on Utøya Island, where 69 people lost their lives. Breivik’s trial began in April 2012 and dominated headlines across Norway and the globe. A sprawling legal battle ensued, focusing on Breivik's mental state and motivations, with the prosecution arguing for his accountability and the defense positing a plea of insanity. The court's decision to sentence Breivik to 21 years of preventive detention reflected a focus not only on punishment but also concern for public safety, allowing for the possibility of extending his sentence indefinitely if he remains deemed a threat.
Why Does it Matter?
This event stands out as a critical moment in Norway's modern history, showcasing challenges posed by far-right extremism. The sentencing underscored the importance of democratic values and collective societal response to acts of political terrorism. Domestically and internationally, the case sparked discussions about Islamophobia, societal integration, and the responsibilities of states to counteract radical ideologies, thus making it a significant part of discourses surrounding public safety and civil rights in contemporary times.
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