Erfurt court resumes trial over alleged hostage-taking and confinement

The trial at the Erfurt District Court regarding the alleged kidnapping and assault of a 19-year-old woman has resumed following a suspension in January. The proceedings were paused to allow for a psychological expert report to address doubts regarding the victim's credibility.

Defendants Arko B., 54, and Annett B., 57, face charges of joint hostage-taking and dangerous bodily harm. Prosecutors allege that in July 2025, the pair rendered the victim unconscious in a vehicle before transporting her to a barn in the Sömmerda district. It is alleged the victim was held captive, threatened with an electric shock, and forced to enter a wooden box while naked.

New allegations have emerged against Arko B., including attempted coercion. Prosecutors claim he attempted to influence the victim to revise her testimony via email and posted a private photo of her on a public Facebook account. While the 57-year-old defendant testified regarding her relationship with the male defendant, Arko B. has denied all charges.