A 48‑year‑old priest from Krefeld in western Germany is on trial for bodily harm after shouting “boo!” at a 58‑year‑old deacon, allegedly triggering a PTSD episode.
Court Hearing Begins
The 48‑year‑old priest’s trial opened on the afternoon of 21 November before the district court in Mönchengladbach.
Priest Aware of Deacon’s Trauma
According to the indictment, the priest knew that the deacon suffered from post‑traumatic stress and that a sudden scare could trigger seizures or a panic attack.
Repeated Incidents in Spring 2024
In spring 2024 the priest allegedly approached the 58‑year‑old deacon from behind in the chapel’s sacristy and loudly shouted “boo!”. A few months later he again frightened the deacon before a service, repeating the situation a third time.
Victim Suffered Seizures and Speech Loss
The medical report records tremors, weakness, and difficulties in speech and alertness following the incidents, prompting the deacon to undergo psychiatric treatment.
Refusal to Pay Fine Keeps Case Public
The priest has declined to pay a 14,000‑Euro fine, so the case is being handled publicly at the Mönchengladbach court.
