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Block Child‑Abduction Trial Hearing Canceled, Key Witness Testimony Pushed to Monday

New reporting has intensified scrutiny of the family lawyer’s role in free hotel stays and cash transfers.

Overview

  • The Hamburg court called off the 30th session due to illness and said the trial will resume on Monday.
  • Postponed testimony includes Eugen Block’s longtime secretary, a bank employee tied to accounts of his late spouse, and a police investigator from the initial probe.
  • Court materials and media reports suggest family lawyer Dr. Andreas Costard arranged rooms at the Grand Elysée for operatives, including WhatsApp exchanges with staff, and his defense declined comment.
  • The operative known as “Doris White” or “Olga” was questioned by prosecutors on January 8 and 12, the search for her was lifted, and she received safe conduct.
  • Prosecutors accuse Christina Block of commissioning the abduction, with a crown witness describing roughly €200,000 in cash for the team and investigators estimating at least €200,000 in lost hotel revenue from months of unpaid stays.