Estonia’s Supreme Court Overturns Fine After Garland Mistaken for Russian Flag
A family in Estonia faced a legal battle after police mistook a New Year’s garland for a Russian flag. The confusion led to a forced entry by special forces and a fine of 600 euros. The case has now been resolved in the family’s favour.
The incident began when a police officer spotted the garland hanging in the family’s home. Believing it resembled a Russian flag, authorities ordered its removal. When the family refused, special forces entered the property.
The family argued that the garland was a standard holiday decoration bought from HEMA, a Dutch retailer. They proved it was sold in multiple stores across Estonia and Latvia. Taking the case to the supreme court, they sought not only the cancellation of the fine but also moral compensation for the distress caused. The court ruled in their favour, overturning the 600 euro fine. Additionally, the family received reimbursement for their legal expenses.
The case highlights how a simple misunderstanding escalated into a legal dispute. With the fine revoked and costs covered, the family has now put the incident behind them. The garland, originally bought as a festive decoration, remains at the centre of an unusual but resolved conflict.
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