Berlin Doctor Tried for 15 Murders, 96 Probed

A 40-year-old German doctor, Johannes M., is on trial in Berlin accused of murdering 15 palliative care patients between September 2021 and July 2024 by administering lethal injections of anaesthetic and muscle relaxant without consent. Prosecutors allege he set fires at victims' homes in several cases to cover up the crimes. They are seeking a life sentence, a lifetime medical ban, and preventive detention due to 'base motives' and 'particularly severe guilt.' The victims, aged 25 to 94, mostly died at home. Investigators are also examining 96 additional suspicious deaths, including that of his mother-in-law. Johannes M. has refused a pre-trial psychiatric interview, so court-appointed experts will observe him during proceedings.