Austria's heaviest prisoner causes a stir: 1,800 euros per day!

Austria's heaviest prisoner causes a stir: 1,800 euros per day!

In Vienna, the arrest of a 29-year-old man is causing excitement and discontent among citizens. He weighs an impressive 289 kilograms, making him the heaviest prisoner in Austria. His arrest came after a house search in which police seized 45 kilograms of cannabis, 2 kilograms of cocaine, almost 2 kilograms of amphetamine and over 2,000 ecstasy tablets. The cost of his accommodation and care, borne by taxpayers, amounts to about 1,800 euros per day, which inevitably raises eyebrows, as Dnevno reported.

The fact that the man's costs differ drastically from the around 180 euros that a “normal” prisoner incurs is only the beginning of the problem. The responsible authorities stated that a transfer to Josefstadt Prison was not possible because the man would have destroyed the bed there due to his weight. Instead, he was taken to the Korneuburg prison, 15 kilometers north of Vienna, where an ultra-sturdy bed was made especially for him and medical care was provided 24 hours a day by external nurses. Transporting the prisoner could even cost up to 5,000 euros per trip.

Criticism of the high costs

The high costs associated with housing the heavyweight inmate have raised concerns among the public. Many citizens have to wait months for medical examinations, while the health and justice systems are under pressure from rising costs. The reality of having to provide expensive transportation and special beds is a source of resentment, especially considering that access to medical services for other detainees is often severely limited. Accommodation in a specially secured medical unit was refused due to the enormous costs.

The Ministry of Justice and Administration has already had one in the past Draft regulations published on the standards for the accommodation and food of prisoners in Austria. This provides for basic hygiene measures, separate sleeping accommodations and appropriate nutrition. Despite these requirements, effective implementation remains particularly challenging in certain cases, particularly when prisoners have special needs or limitations.

Current situation in Austria's prisons

The situation in Austrian prisons is not only characterized by the specific challenges of the most serious prisoner, but also generally reflects the composition of the inmates. According to a study published by Statista in December 2024, there is a diversity of nationalities among prisoners, which further complicates the challenges facing prisons. Given this overall situation, the question is how the justice system will deal with the increasing costs and the specific needs of individual inmates in the future.

The public discussion about the situation in our prisons is anything but over. Many Viennese are eagerly waiting to see what solutions those responsible will find to ensure both security and health care in correctional facilities. Citizens' concerns are understandable and authorities are called upon to present answers and solutions.