Overview
- On the 20th trial day, Block declared her innocence and alleged her ex-husband’s side tried to pressure her into a confession, prompting rebukes from the judge and prosecutor as the ex-husband’s lawyer dismissed the claim.
- The court reviewed Grand Elysée surveillance images from late December 2023 suggesting unusually close contact between hotel staff and suspected members of the Israeli firm, while several employees declined to testify to avoid self-incrimination.
- Former CEO Stephan von Bülow said Block lacked operational authority to award such contracts and had only recommended the firm in 2023, as witnesses detailed unpaid hotel charges up to €230,000, check-ins under false names, and a €12,000 advance.
- A 36-year-old Israeli co-defendant has confessed to taking part in the operation and remains in custody, with his attorney urging a faster timetable.
- Earlier this week, a Danish appeals court upheld a contact ban and sole custody for the father, and company founder Eugen Block filed a bias complaint and said he would refuse to testify.