Court Says Streakers May Be Held Liable

[Jasman0717 9]

ROSTOCK, Germany (AP) - A German court ruled that stadium operators can claim damages from streakers at matches - a decision that could affect the World Cup.

The High Regional Court in Rostock ruled Friday in favor of local second-division club Hansa Rostock, which filed compensation claims against three streakers after being fined euro20,000 ($24,800) by the German soccer federation (DFB).

The court ruled the club could seek full compensation for the fine against the trio, who had climbed over the fence and onto the field during an October 2003 match.

Judge Hans-Georg Eckert rejected their defense that the club had not provided sufficient security.

"If you are caught stealing, you can't argue that the shop owner should have better protected his goods," Eckert said.

During last year's Confederations Cup, a dress rehearsal for the June 9-July 9 World Cup, streakers ran onto the field in several stadiums, angering organizers.

"The ruling is a signal to the World Cup organizing committee," organizing committee spokesman Jens Grittner said. "If we are fined by FIFA because of streakers, we'll take the judicial way."

Hansa lawyer Gunnar Kempf said he had received backing from the DFB and the German League, which wanted a "deterring verdict" that would have bearing in all sports.

The ruling can be appealed to Germany's highest appeals court.

[w¡n9Nµ7 §£@¥€r 123]

When is the rally for streakers rights?

[sukie175 0]

Bloody spoilsports

[almaty 19]

i agree//who does not enjoy a streaker at intermission

[sukie175 0]

all those wobbly bits on full display and cops in a panic not sure what to grab

[almaty 19]

should fine him for displaying his shortcomings

[Mirorgate 0]

should fine him for displaying his shortcomings

oh no you DI'INT!

[Dixie_Peach 1]

i agree//who does not enjoy a streaker at intermission

all those wobbly bits on full display and cops in a panic not sure what to grab

should fine him for displaying his shortcomings

oh my gosh!!! sukes & dean... VJ quipsters!!!

[Ban Hammer 13,343]

ah maybe there will be demonstrations supporting the streakers rights in europe now

[almaty 19]

ah maybe there will be demonstrations supporting the streakers rights in europe now

i agree..instead of holding up signs ..they can grab..their cranks

[arwensun1965 0]

Keep nudity on the beaches of Brighton ....for those who do not know there is a nudist beach situated on Brighton Beach, England.

[Ban Hammer 13,343]

ah maybe there will be demonstrations supporting the streakers rights in europe now

i agree..instead of holding up signs ..they can grab..their cranks

lol. and what will the women grab?

[almaty 19]

the guys crank