The trial of Daniela Klette is approaching its conclusion at the Verden Regional Court. During recent proceedings, the 67-year-old defendant claimed the court is attempting to “make an example” of her.
Klette utilized her appearance as a platform for the critique of capitalism and political expression. While she did not speak concretely regarding the specific crimes alleged, she indirectly expressed regret if any participants were traumatized.
Political Claims and Courtroom Tension
In her closing remarks, Klette asserted that the proceedings are politically motivated. She argued that the court’s objective is not to address individual acts, but rather to delegitimize political resistance.
The defendant stated that she eventually went underground due to increasingly strict surveillance by state security. Her testimony concluded with the statement, “We can only be truly free when all are free.”
This statement sparked a disturbance in the gallery, where approximately two dozen supporters stood up to applaud. Supporters displayed a banner reading “Freedom for Daniela Klette,” which was immediately seized by judicial officers.
The Prosecution’s Case
Prosecutor Annette Marquardt has requested a sentence of 15 years in prison. The charges involve eight robberies of supermarkets and cash transporters carried out between 1999 and 2016.
The indictment includes charges of attempted joint murder and severe gang robbery involving weapons. The trial, which began 13 months ago in Celle, has since moved to the current venue.
Steffen Hörning, a lawyer representing a cash transporter driver, specifically addressed an attack on June 6, 2015, in Stuhr. He alleged that three armed individuals—presumably Klette, Ernst-Volker Staub, and Burkhard Garweg—carried out the robbery.
Hörning requested 11 years of imprisonment for the Stuhr incident alone, noting that his client remains unable to work to this day. He described Klette as being “trapped within herself.”
Next Steps in the Proceedings
The defense is scheduled to deliver its final plea on Wednesday. The defense has previously described the converted courtroom as “overdimensioned.”
A verdict is expected to be delivered on May 27.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sentence is the prosecution seeking for Daniela Klette?
Prosecutor Annette Marquardt is seeking 15 years of imprisonment for eight robberies and attempted joint murder.
Why was the trial moved to a converted riding hall?
The original Landgericht Verden building was too small and did not meet the necessary security requirements for the trial.
What was the result of the June 2015 incident in Stuhr?
The victim’s lawyer stated that the driver of the cash transporter remains unable to work following the attack by three armed individuals.
Do you believe the costs of high-security courtrooms are justified for cases involving former militants?
