The 29-year-old main defendant, Dennis J., has admitted involvement in numerous offenses in the case of a woman allegedly abused and raped over several months in a terraced house in Soest, Westphalia. His lawyer told the Arnsberg Regional Court that his client “basically admits” taking part in many of the alleged acts.
Two men and two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, are charged with offenses including bodily harm, rape, coercion and unlawful imprisonment. Prosecutors allege that they humiliated and mistreated the woman in varying degrees of participation during 2025.
The presiding judge, Marc Gährken, said on Monday that new evidence had emerged in favor of the 17-year-old. According to the public prosecutor’s office, the allegations against him are therefore no longer justified. The development followed a previously confidential legal discussion involving the parties to the trial.
The defense lawyer for the 25-year-old co-defendant, who is also in pretrial detention, reportedly announced during that discussion that his client would likewise make a confession. He is primarily accused of rape.
According to the indictment, the victim, who was homeless, was repeatedly lured to the 29-year-old’s house. She was rescued in early November after a neighbor raised the alarm. At the time, she was almost naked and tied to a terrace beam in extremely cold conditions. Dennis J. has also admitted this alleged act.
The prosecution said further evidence had emerged against the 29-year-old and that it planned to bring an additional indictment. His proceedings are therefore expected to be separated from the rest of the trial.
Sources: FAZ.