Berlin’s Justice Senator Felor Badenberg, a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), has announced plans to intensify the fight against organized crime. She has expressed support for a shift in the burden of proof for tracing the origin of assets, as seen in Italy, where suspects must demonstrate the legal origin of their wealth.
In an interview with the Tagesspiegel, Badenberg emphasized the need for more comprehensive regulations, stating, “It’s not just about whether, but also how.” She commissioned a legal opinion from three renowned experts, who have been studying this issue for years and the report’s findings are expected in September.
Badenberg has also been involved in the effort to include the goal of reversing the burden of proof for illegal assets in the coalition agreement between the CDU and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) at the federal level. “We will also participate in the shaping of this issue as a state government” she added.
Since 2017, Germany has had the power to seize assets in cases of suspected money laundering, even if the accused have not been convicted of a crime. The notable example of the seizure of 77 properties belonging to the notorious Remmo clan in 2018 has garnered widespread attention.