39th Day of Trial – Prosecutor Considered Dismissal, But Continues Anyway

Prosecutor Filed Bias Motion Against Entire Chamber

Back on the 27th day of trial (March 17, 2025), the prosecution had responded to the court’s legal evaluation during a meeting on March 12 by filing a motion of bias against all judges. At that meeting, the court had stated that the original allegations against Ballweg were largely unsustainable and suggested dismissing the case under § 153(2) StPO.

Michael Ballweg commented: “Fascinating how many turns this trial is still taking – even though it’s been clear for some time that there’s nothing to it.”

Early Pressure from the Ministry of Finance

The day’s main testimony came from a tax officer of the Stuttgart I tax office. She described a “precautionary meeting” with Ballweg’s tax advisor – long before the legal deadline for filing his tax return. The meeting was initiated upon the recommendation of the Ministry of Finance, after it received a letter from a critical attorney. Ballweg’s defense attorney, Ralf Ludwig, commented:

“Pressure was applied before there was any legal basis. A textbook example of politically motivated pre-judgment.”

Ballweg’s business registration, cited by the tax office, was clarified in court: it pertained solely to the sale of merchandise, not to demonstrations.

Merchandise Shop and Artist Payments – Allegations Refuted

A witness from the demonstration shop testified that Ballweg waived additional income he would have been entitled to. Ludwig noted: “Someone trying to make money doesn’t voluntarily give up revenue.”

Another witness, a self-described spiritual artist, accused Ballweg of not distributing donations among artists. These claims related to an event after a truck had been destroyed, where Ballweg called for donations to the affected company and shared the bank account of the event firm. Ludwig stated: “Another attempt to turn legitimate aid into an accusation.”

Tax Office Owes €200,000 Refund – But No Notice Issued

Ballweg also revealed that the Stuttgart tax office had recalculated his tax based on a court order. Result: a refund of €200,000 was due. However, a formal notice has not yet been issued. Ballweg announced his intention to file an inactivity lawsuit.

“Three years after my arrest, the administration still refuses to implement the law. This shows just how political this entire case has become.”

Ballweg’s legal expenses insurance is also refusing coverage – despite the ongoing trial. The defense is preparing legal action.

Outlook

The next trial day is scheduled for Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Stuttgart Regional Court. A key tax investigator is expected to testify – considered by the defense to be one of the central figures in the investigation.