Berlin SPD State Secretary Hochgrebe pays 5,000 euros following violence allegations
The Interior State Secretary Christian Hochgrebe was obliged to pay 5,000 euros to a victim support organisation to avert criminal proceedings for alleged assault and coercion.
Berlin SPD State Secretary Hochgrebe pays 5,000 euros following violence allegations
A criminal investigation against Berlin Interior State Secretary Christian Hochgrebe (53, SPD) has been concluded in exchange for a financial payment. The politician was obliged to transfer 5,000 euros to the non-profit association "Weißer Ring", which supports people who have become victims of violent acts.
Investigators had the Social Democrat in their sights because he allegedly entered his ex-partner's flat against her will. The incident led to a heated dispute, during which the woman fell and sustained minor injuries.
Hochgrebe has been State Secretary in the Interior Senate of the capital since spring 2023. Previously, he sat in the Berlin House of Representatives for five years. In autumn, he is seeking to win his seat there again.
The legal requirement is based on a provision in criminal procedure law that allows dismissal in cases of minor culpability. The affected party must consent to this. The judicial authority explicitly pointed out that this does not constitute a guilty verdict and the presumption of innocence remains in effect.
The legal representative of the 53-year-old stated that his client continues to vehemently deny the allegations. Acceptance of the requirement serves exclusively the welfare of their joint minor children and the lasting improvement of family relations.
Source: BILD
Source: BILD