Defendant vandalizes Nidaros Cathedral and Jewish cemetery in Trondheim, Norway

On April 8, a defendant took orange spray paint to the Nidaros Cathedral, where he vandalized the doors and stone walls with various messages. At the visitor center, he sprayed “Hitler” on a glass wall, alongside his full name. The defendant explained his actions in court, stating, “It was to provoke. I am not a Nazi. I am a social democrat.”

During March and April, police received numerous reports regarding the defendant’s disruptive and frightening behavior, including minor vandalism and shoplifting incidents in Trondheim. He acknowledged his guilt concerning the extensive charges against him and described his actions as a cry for help.

The defendant, in his late 40s, had been hospitalized eight times between January and June due to suspected psychosis, often discharged without treatment. Experts in psychiatric law concluded that he suffers from a psychotic disorder, for which he is now involuntarily committed. The prosecution argued for mandatory mental health treatment, asserting he is criminally irresponsible. The defense contended that the current treatment is effective and that he should be acquitted of charges in favor of enforced treatment.

Just days after the vandalism at Nidaros Cathedral, the defendant also vandalized a Jewish cemetery. He has been using cannabis, amphetamines, and alcohol, expressing doubt that he will follow treatment recommendations, saying, “I will probably use drugs again.”

The court noted that, while he is currently receiving treatment, he could be released at any time, posing a risk of further offenses. The costs incurred for cleaning the cathedral totaled NOK 100,000, with the defendant ordered to pay over NOK 50,000 in damages for other vandalism. Nidaros Cathedral, a protected cultural site built in the mid-12th century, suffered damage to some of its medieval stones as a result of the vandalism. Efforts were made to limit the damage, but complete removal of the spray paint was deemed impossible without harming the stone further.