38th Day of Trial – Tax Official Reports Political Investigation Order Against Ballweg

Tax Office Investigated Nonprofit Status Before Any Application Was Filed

A witness from the Stuttgart tax office testified that the agency had already been assessing whether Ballweg’s organization could qualify for nonprofit status — even though no application had been submitted. A “preventive control notice” was sent early on to other financial authorities, including the inheritance tax office in Tauberbischofsheim. Attorney Hans Böhme remarked:

“Someone stands up for fundamental rights — and they’re preemptively targeted by an investigation. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

The witness also referenced the so-called “Attac ruling,” which held that political work is reserved for political parties and therefore cannot be classified as nonprofit activity.

Ballweg Donated TV Honorarium to QUERDENKEN-711

Another witness from the Herbert & Schroeder GmbH — the management agency of comedian Florian Schroeder — explained that Michael Ballweg received a TV appearance fee of €750, which he donated in full to the movement.

A technical service provider testified in the afternoon about the organizational workload and cost structure of QUERDENKEN-711 demonstrations, which were covered by Ballweg.

Ludwig: Court Investigates What Prosecution Failed to Do

Attorney Ralf Ludwig once again criticized the prosecution’s inadequate investigation:

“The court is now forced to investigate whether there was ever probable cause. This case should never have gone to trial. The charges are based on politically motivated claims.”

Ludwig referenced Baden-Württemberg’s Minister of the Interior, Thomas Strobl, whose creation of a new "delegitimization" category led to Ballweg being labeled an enemy of the state. The tax official admitted his task was to ensure “no political problems” would arise.

Ballweg Looks Ahead: Reading, Workshops, Podcast Team

Michael Ballweg announced a public reading in Metzingen on August 29. Workshops on the Freedom Phone (August 30) and Bitcoin (August 31) will follow. He is also working on a new podcast format with a dedicated tax advisor team to expose the behavior of the tax authorities.

“We must drain energy from digital surveillance. That starts with education and personal responsibility.”

Outlook

The next hearing is scheduled for July 2, 2025. Four witnesses are expected, including a tax official and a supporter of Michael Ballweg.