Mayor Faces Trial for Coronavirus Pandemic Fraud and Weapon Charges
Markus Berktold, the mayor of Seeg in Ostallgäu, is currently on trial in Nuremberg-Fürth Regional Court. The controversial figure is accused of stealing millions from a care rescue fund during the pandemic, misusing his political office for personal gain, and unlawfully possessing weapons.
The allegations against Berktold involve misappropriating approximately 2.1 million euros from the care rescue fund, which was created during the coronavirus crisis, in collaboration with a care service manager, also facing trial. The funds were reportedly intended to alleviate liquidity issues in his private companies. In some instances, Berktold is suspected of creating fake invoices to justify the transactions.
Apart from the fraud and embezzlement charges, Berktold has been charged with unauthorized possession of weapons during a raid at his residence, in which authorities discovered a rifle, pistol, and ammunition without the necessary permits.
In addition to Berktold, the co-defendant, a care service manager, and his wife are accused of unlawfully obtaining benefits amounting to 270,000 euros from the care rescue fund to pay off personal debts. The wife's involvement in the trial has been severed due to health concerns.
The ongoing trial has sparked concern within the international community, who have demanded transparency and accountability in the proceedings. Berktold, who claims to be innocent, has voiced his concerns about threats allegedly connected to the trial.
Enrichment Data:
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