Polish MEP Grzegorz Braun appeared for questioning in Wrocław regarding the alleged unlawful restriction of a doctor’s freedom, but stalled proceedings with a recusal request.
European Parliament Lifted Braun’s Immunity
The European Parliament voted on November 13th of last year to waive Grzegorz Braun’s immunity, enabling Wrocław prosecutors to formally press charges.
Third Attempt to Present Charges
This marks the third attempt to present charges to Braun. Previous hearings were scheduled for February 17th and March 4th. He previously requested the recusal of prosecutor Karolina Stocka-Mycek, leading to a suspension of proceedings, and then failed to appear on March 4th, submitting justification for his absence.
Allegations Detail Six Separate Actions
Braun faces charges related to six alleged offenses. Four concern events at the Oleśnica hospital in April of last year, including unlawful deprivation of liberty, assault, verbal abuse, and defamation of the doctor, Gizela Jagielska.
Incident at Oleśnica Hospital
On April 16, 2025, Braun entered the Powiatowy Zespół Szpitali in Oleśnica and attempted to obstruct the work of gynecologist Gizela Jagielska, claiming he was making a citizen’s arrest. Jagielska reported that Braun blocked her path and confined her to an administrative room.
Additional Charges Include Vandalism and Incitement
Further charges relate to the destruction of posters in Opole in March 2025 and inciting criminal activity in an online program on December 14, 2023.
Prosecutor Considers Request for Arrest Warrant
The prosecutor leading the investigation into the alleged deprivation of liberty of Dr. Jagielska is considering requesting a warrant for Braun’s arrest and forced appearance to present the charges. Braun again requested the recusal of the prosecutor, leading to a suspension of the hearing.
Braun Formally Designated as Suspect, Leaves Hearing
Braun appeared at the District Prosecutor’s Office in Wrocław on Monday, but left after a few minutes, stating he had filed a motion to disqualify the lead prosecutor. Prosecutors confirmed he has now been formally designated as a suspect.
Prosecutor Confirms Self-Removal and Potential Arrest Warrant
Damian Pownuk, spokesperson for the District Prosecutor’s Office in Wrocław, confirmed Braun’s recusal request and the interruption of the hearing. He stated the prosecutor is now considering a request to the European Parliament for Braun’s arrest and forced appearance.
Separate Investigation into Abortion Procedure Dismissed
On December 10th of last year, the Oleśnica District Prosecutor’s Office dropped an investigation into allegations of an illegal abortion performed by Dr. Gizela Jagielska at the Oleśnica hospital. The investigation, initiated in early 2025, found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing.
Co-Defendant Charged in Hospital Incident
In the investigation into the hospital incident, charges have also been filed against Marta C., an activist from Konfederacja Korony Polskiej, and four other individuals. Marta C. is accused of obstructing Dr. Jagielska’s freedom and physically restraining her during Braun’s “citizen’s arrest.”