Evidence presented in the trial of the "craftsman angel" as multiple witnesses take the stand in sequence.
The trial against Thomas M., also known as the "Handyman Angel" in Regensburg, Bavaria, has been ongoing since February and shows no signs of ending. The case involves over 200 cases from all over Germany, indicted against Thomas M. and the now-insolvent Seibel GmbH.
In a recent development, the prosecution is considering reducing the number of charged cases from over 200 to twelve. This decision comes as a result of the constant cancellations from witnesses, which have been causing disruptions and wasting time in the court sessions.
One summoned witness did not appear, prompting a potential fine. Another, an unemployed truck driver from Gelsenkirchen, refused to testify, citing his right to avoid self-incrimination. Witnesses continue to cancel, citing various reasons such as forgetfulness, spelling mistakes in letters, psychological problems, sick family members, and dogs.
The public prosecutor has suggested video testimonies as a solution to the ongoing issue of witness cancellations. However, the judge, Thomas Zenger, expressed concerns about the chamber's overload and has suggested that video testimonies or testimonies by judges at the place of residence may not be feasible due to poor sound quality and his ongoing commitment to the case.
Thomas M. has no involvement with the company, only his wife does. He is accused of professional fraud through emergency services. Complainants continue to come forward, alleging inflated bills from craftsmen mediated by a similarly named company from Regensburg (now Seibel GmbH & Co. KG).
The suspicion of bribery related to the extension of contracts was reported in cities within the Upper Palatinate (Oberpfalz) and Bavaria, specifically including Rosenheim. The focus is on proving the criminality of the business practice, not on a confession from Thomas M. or his lawyers.
Judge Zenger has expressed his frustration with the disrupted sessions and his desire to explain the importance of process efficiency. The next session day starts at 10:15 AM, as the first summoned witness has cancelled.
Despite the challenges, the trial continues, with the hope that justice will be served and the truth will be uncovered.
