Trial of Sebastian M. Begins in Poland

The news in Polish

1. proces  (m.)
   Oficjalne postępowanie sądowe wobec osoby oskarżonej o przestępstwo. ↩︎
2. rozpocząć
   Zacząć coś robić, zainicjować działanie. ↩︎
3. oskarżony
   Będący przedmiotem oskarżenia, podejrzany o popełnienie przestępstwa. ↩︎
4. spowodowanie  (n.)
   Doprowadzenie do wystąpienia jakiegoś zdarzenia. ↩︎
5. zarzut  (m.)
   Twierdzenie, że ktoś popełnił przestępstwo lub wykroczenie. ↩︎
6. rozprawa  (f.)
   Posiedzenie sądu w sprawie sądowej, podczas którego rozpatruje się dowody i argumenty stron. ↩︎

Translation

Text comprehension

Question 1: What is Sebastian M. accused of?

Question 2: How long could Sebastian M. be sentenced to prison if found guilty?

Vocabulary

Polish	English
proces  (m.)	trial
rozpocząć	to start
oskarżony	accused
spowodowanie  (n.)	causing
zarzut  (m.)	charges
rozprawa  (f.)	hearing

Read the full story

The anticipated trial of Sebastian M., accused of causing a fatal accident on the A1 motorway near Piotrków Trybunalski, commenced recently in what many have termed one of the most awaited criminal proceedings in recent years in Poland. This tragic incident, which occurred two years ago, resulted in the deaths of a family returning from a coastal vacation.

The accident involved Sebastian M.’s BMW crashing into a car occupied by a couple and their 5-year-old son, all of whom died at the scene. Prosecutors argue that the accident was due to Sebastian M.’s driving at an excessively high speed, rendering him unable to avoid the collision. If convicted, he faces up to eight years in prison.

The case has garnered attention not only for its tragic nature but also due to the public interest in the subsequent legal proceedings. On the day of the trial, the courtroom was notably filled with journalists and the mother and sister of Sebastian M., who were visibly emotional as the hearing unfolded.

The defence has pushed for a different narrative, denying the account given by the prosecution. They have proposed mediations, a suggestion that has been accepted by the court as a step towards potentially resolving the issues at hand. These mediations, which are to be conducted with a mediator present, do not replace the court’s final decision but could influence outcomes.

Advocates representing the victims’ family have called for the maximum sentence, citing a lack of remorse shown by the accused. The victims’ family, supervised by their legal representative, have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of mediations, given the history of the accused’s behaviour.

The legal battle has been further complicated by the involvement of the Freedom-24 Foundation, which seeks to ensure fair proceedings and address any human rights concerns during the trial.

Looking ahead, further hearings have been scheduled as the case progresses. The outcome remains uncertain, but it is clear the trial has not only legal implications but emotional repercussions for all involved.

Info: “Polish Learner News” is a service from “Let’s Learn Polish”, a dedicated language school offering various types of online Polish courses. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to advance, our courses cater to different levels, providing a comprehensive learning experience.