Alleged Reichsbürger Defendant Rejects Terrorism Charges, Emphasizes Democratic Beliefs
Munich, Germany
In the ongoing trial of alleged members of the Reichsbürger group led by Heinrich XIII. Prinz Reuß, a defendant known as Dr. R. has vehemently denied core charges of terrorism and violent intentions. Appearing before the Munich Higher Regional Court, she asserted her unwavering commitment to democracy and non-violence.
"I am a convinced democrat," Dr. R. stated emphatically. "I reject antisemitism and have always denounced violence. I have never advocated for anything that could harm others."
She distanced herself vehemently from both Reichsbürger and neo-Nazis, labeling them "frightening" and "despicable." She asserted that her family and she had never questioned the democratic principles of the German state.
"I believe in the rule of law and the democratic system," Dr. R. emphasized. "I would never participate in anything that would undermine these values."
The trial, involving eight defendants, is one of three major terrorism cases nationwide against the Reuß Reichsbürger group. The group gained notoriety following a large-scale anti-terror raid in late 2022. According to accusations by the German Federal Prosecutor’s Office, the defendants plotted to violently overthrow the German government, accepting the potential loss of life. Reuß was allegedly slated to lead the new government as head of state.
Dr. R., the Federal Prosecutor alleges, was part of the organization’s "Council," a body akin to a cabinet in a legitimate government.
"You can accuse me of many things," Dr. R. told the court, "but if there’s one thing I have never wanted, it’s violence. I am a pacifist and an opponent of weapons. The sanctity of life is deeply ingrained in me."
She added that she was neither a COVID-19 denier nor an anti-vaccine proponent but rather a firm believer in evidence-based medicine.
Despite these assertions, Dr. R. acknowledged participating in the Hawaiian forgiveness ritual "Hooponopono," both individually and with a small group. She described it as a method for purifying thought patterns from disturbing information.
Prior to Dr. R.’s testimony, two other defendants in the Munich trial had also denied any terrorist or seditious intentions. The trial is expected to continue until at least early 2026.
The eight defendants face charges that include founding or participating in a terrorist organization and preparing for treason. The outcome of this high-profile case will have significant implications for the ongoing debate about far-right extremism and anti-democratic activities in Germany.
