The Traunstein Regional Court has acquitted a 23-year-old man in a retrial concerning the death of a Bavarian student in October 2022, effectively overturning a previous conviction and nine-year juvenile sentence. The case, which originally captivated national attention, centered on the death of the 23-year-old woman near the “Eiskeller” nightclub in Aschau, Upper Bavaria, where she tragically drowned in a nearby stream.
The initial trial had hinged significantly on the testimony of a fellow inmate, whose account implicated the defendant in a sexual assault leading to the woman’s accidental fall into the water. However, the prosecution’s case has been severely undermined by new expert assessments deeming the inmate’s testimony unreliable. This crucial shift in credibility directly contributed to the acquittal announced earlier this week.
The original conviction, widely reported as a murder verdict, was already overturned by the Federal Court of Justice following a successful appeal by the defendant. The retrial underscores serious questions surrounding the reliability of witness testimonies, particularly when obtained within the prison system. Legal experts are now raising concerns about the potential implications for ongoing cases reliant on similar testimonies.
While the defendant has been cleared of all charges, the case highlights broader issues concerning investigative rigor and judicial caution when dealing with evidence obtained in correctional settings. The family of the deceased has expressed deep disappointment and is reportedly considering further legal action, questioning the integrity of the investigation and the justice process employed. The incident has reignited debate within Bavaria about safety protocols around nightlife venues and the vulnerability of individuals traveling alone at night.