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Berlin Doctor Indicted on Murder Charges in Palliative Care Patient Deaths
BERLIN, Germany – A physician in Berlin has been formally indicted on murder charges concerning the deaths of 15 patients who were under palliative care, prosecutors announced on Wednesday. The doctor is also accused of attempting to conceal evidence by allegedly setting fires in the residences of the deceased.
Investigation Expands in Patient Death Case
The doctor, practicing in Germany and affiliated with a nursing service’s end-of-life care team, initially faced suspicion in connection with the deaths of four patients. However, the number of cases under scrutiny has progressively increased since last summer. Investigators now assert they have uncovered evidence linking him to the deaths of 15 individuals between September 22, 2021, and July 24 of the preceding year. The victims’ ages ranged from 25 to 94, with the majority passing away in their own homes.
Details of the Alleged Crimes
According to the prosecutor’s office, the accused doctor purportedly administered an anaesthetic and a muscle relaxant to the patients without their awareness or agreement. This drug combination allegedly induced paralysis of the respiratory muscles, leading to respiratory arrest and subsequent death within minutes, as stated by prosecutors.
Accused Doctor in Custody, Remains Silent
The 40-year-old doctor, whose identity has been withheld in accordance with German privacy regulations, has been in detention since August 6. Prosecutors further stated on Wednesday that the accused has not yet responded to the allegations brought against him.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Sentencing
The indictment has been submitted to the Berlin state court, which will now deliberate on whether to proceed with a trial and, if so, to determine the schedule. Murder charges in Germany carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
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Prosecution Seeks Severe Punishment
Prosecutors have indicated their intention to petition the court to recognize particularly severe culpability on the part of the accused. Such a determination would mean he would not be eligible for early release after 15 years, which is standard practice in Germany. Furthermore, they are seeking a lifetime professional ban, aiming to prevent him from practicing medicine in the future.