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Hamburg Pastor on Trial Over Alleged Abuse of 15-Year-Old, Child-Porn Possession

The case spotlights the church’s public backing for the accuser under strict courtroom protections.

Overview

  • The suspended 63-year-old appeared at Hamburg’s regional court and said “Not yet” when asked to respond to the charges.
  • Prosecutors accuse him of three assaults in 2022 and of possessing child‑porn images found on a phone and a tablet during a 2023 home search.
  • Investigators say the boy’s father arranged the meetings and received €2,800, with a smaller sum going to the teen.
  • The court excluded the public for the accuser’s testimony to protect the then‑15‑year‑old.
  • The Nordkirche removed the pastor from duty in 2025 and voiced full support for the accuser, and the court has set additional hearing dates through May 22.