41st Day of Trial – Court Criticizes Prosecution, Police Confirm No Request for Tax Authority Support

VAT Allegation Shrinks to Minimal Amounts

A tax investigator appointed by the court presented his calculations on VAT for 2020, focusing on small expenses – such as a dog mat or wood oil. When questioned, the officer was unable to explain key parts of his own report.

A glaring contradiction also emerged: The investigator claimed there was no VAT return submitted by Ballweg – but later admitted he simply didn’t know if one had been filed. He had assumed zero, which led to a calculated difference of €67,000 – not considered an actual tax shortfall. He also couldn’t explain how the term “tax evasion” ended up in his report.

In fact, there was only a minor discrepancy between Ballweg’s filed VAT return and the tax office’s later findings – a common occurrence in business due to adjustments or corrections.

The presiding judge listed the relevant amounts herself – many under €25 and two just above €1,100. The fraud accusation could only stand if Ballweg had knowingly misinformed his tax advisor. The court expressed doubts and once again proposed to dismiss the case.

Defense Rejects Dismissal Without Compensation

According to attorney Dr. Reinhard Löffler, the prosecution offered to dismiss the case without compensation for pretrial detention, but with a high fine. The defense declined. Löffler stated:

“The judge made it clear multiple times that an acquittal is possible. Yet the prosecution insists on continuing – even though the accusations are barely standing.”

Attorney Ralf Ludwig confirmed: A dismissal under § 153 of the Criminal Procedure Code would only be accepted if it included full rehabilitation and compensation.

Police Witness Confirms: No Request for Tax Authority Assistance

Attention turned to the testimony of the head of the “EG Kreuz” investigation team. He stated that no formal request had been made to the tax authority for assistance in the house search at Ballweg’s residence – even though tax agents were present. This supports the notion that the tax authorities acted independently and proactively.

“From the moment of the search, the tax procedure had begun – Ballweg was no longer required to submit new returns.” (Ralf Ludwig)

No Incriminating Witnesses – Videos Show Ballweg’s Advocacy for Civil Rights

The day began with two sign language interpreters who testified that they had received travel expense support from Ballweg. They confirmed the funds were exclusively for attending demonstrations. The court also viewed over two hours of video – including a transparency video and a Spiegel TV interview – clearly showing Ballweg’s dedication to peace, freedom, and civil rights.

Outlook

The next hearing is scheduled for Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Stuttgart Regional Court. Three witnesses are summoned, including the judge who issued the detention order in 2022. Closing arguments are expected to begin on July 22, 2025.