33rd Day of Trial – Foundation Legally Sound, House Search Raises New Questions

Officials Confirm: Foundation Legally Proper

Michael Ballweg originally sought to establish a charitable foundation. However, because this structure proved too cumbersome — especially due to the tax office’s influence on decisions — it was restructured into a family foundation with a charitable subsidiary.

The two officials questioned confirmed that the statutes and founding documents were consistent, all information was correct, and no funds had been distributed to beneficiaries. The foundation is currently no longer operational, as its accounts were frozen. Legally, however, there is no objection to the foundation.

“A good day for the defense,” said attorney Reinhard Löffler. “The allegations against the foundation were baseless from the start.”

Tax Office Present at House Search – Without Necessity

The third witness, a senior criminal investigator, was present during the house search and responsible for forensic evaluation. He surprisingly testified that the tax office was involved in the search — even though he saw no technical necessity for it. The police could have handled all tasks on their own.

Even more revealing: The witness confirmed that a pre-briefing meeting for the search had taken place. Although he could not recall details, he considered such coordination “standard.” Other witnesses had previously denied such a pre-briefing — a further contradiction now officially documented by the defense.

“This paints a clear picture of the authorities’ witness practices in this case,” commented attorney Hans Böhme.

Ballweg: "The Contradictions Are Growing"

Michael Ballweg remained defiant after the session:

“The contradictions in witness statements are increasing. Once again, it became clear today: there is no reason for me to stand trial — but there are many reasons to question the authorities’ conduct.”

Looking ahead to the next hearings, Ballweg welcomed the court’s decision to summon two tax investigators again — including an official who had previously called his case a "standard case."

The next hearing is scheduled for May 6, 2025, focusing on the subject of cryptocurrencies.