Croatian judge detained after beach dispute in Gradac

A judge from the Varaždin Municipal Court was detained and spent several hours in a police cell following a confrontation on a beach in Gradac on August 10. The incident involved a Bosnian couple residing in Germany.

The dispute reportedly began when the 54-year-old judge moved two chairs belonging to the couple, claiming their belongings—including towels and loungers—occupied approximately 25 square meters of maritime domain. The confrontation escalated into verbal arguments, with allegations that the judge insulted the couple and that the woman attempted to snatch the judge's phone to prevent filming.

All three individuals face charges for disturbing public order and peace. The Association of Croatian Judges has requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of the Interior regarding the police's handling of the situation. While the judge maintains she did not use her professional status to seek preferential treatment, the Split-Dalmatia Police Administration stated that officers acted professionally and legally toward all participants.