German Courts Address Two Violent Cases Involving Family Members

Separate incidents in Cottbus and Berlin see charges of murder and attempted murder, with psychiatric evaluations central to both cases.

In Cottbus, a 44-year-old man is accused of murdering his 14-year-old stepdaughter in 2024, with prosecutors seeking a 14-year prison sentence and psychiatric commitment.
The defense in the Cottbus case argues for a manslaughter conviction, citing diminished responsibility due to mental health issues, and also supports psychiatric treatment.
The victim in the Cottbus case died from fatal neck wounds inflicted with a knife; the accused was subdued by police using a taser during his arrest.
In Berlin, a 40-year-old man faces charges of attempted murder after allegedly stabbing his sleeping partner multiple times in December 2024, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.
The Berlin case highlights the intervention of the couple's 14-year-old son, whose actions prevented further harm; prosecutors describe the incident as a suspected femicide attempt.