Convictions for Weapon Possession and Coup Plans Finalized

In a significant legal decision, three men from the Taunus region have been convicted for their involvement in possessing illegal weapons and plotting a coup. The main defendant, a 23-year-old former Bundeswehr soldier, received a seven-year prison sentence. His 66-year-old father and 22-year-old brother were sentenced to five and a half years and three and a half years, respectively, for aiding and abetting. The convictions were upheld by Germany's Federal Court of Justice.

This case dates back to February 2021, when police discovered a substantial arsenal in their Glashütten home, including hand grenades and explosives. The investigation revealed connections with right-wing extremist groups and plans to establish paramilitary "Freikorps" units. These groups aimed to orchestrate an armed coup in the Hochtaunus district.

The father justified the weapon cache as a collection hobby, but authorities dismissed this explanation. The main perpetrator had maintained extremist contacts since 2016, further corroborating the plot's seriousness.

Parallel to this case, investigations are ongoing against another father-son duo in Hessen for similar charges, highlighting a concerning pattern. They are suspected of hoarding weapons, ammunition, and chemicals for potential explosive manufacturing. The son has been linked to far-right online activities.

These cases underscore the persistent threat posed by extremist ideologies and illegal armament within Germany. Authorities continue to focus on dismantling such networks, ensuring national security remains uncompromised.