Court Proposes Dismissal of Fraud Case Against 'Querdenken' Founder Michael Ballweg

The Stuttgart court suggests ending the trial over fraud and tax evasion charges due to insufficient evidence, but prosecutors oppose the move.

Michael Ballweg, founder of the 'Querdenken' movement, faces accusations of misusing over €575,000 in donations for personal purposes.
The Stuttgart court proposed dismissing the case on the grounds of minor significance and lack of evidence for intentional wrongdoing.
Prosecutors rejected the court's suggestion, maintaining that a conviction is still likely and alleging deliberate fraud and tax evasion by Ballweg.
Ballweg, who spent nine months in pretrial detention, has consistently denied the charges, and his legal team argues the claims are unsubstantiated.
The 'Querdenken' movement, formed in opposition to Germany's COVID-19 measures, has been criticized for its polarizing demonstrations and alleged links to violence.