Alleged coffee contamination incident under investigation: Nurse denies allegations of attempted homicide - Emergency responder rejects charges of intentional homicide
A trainee paramedic is standing trial at the Regional Court in Heilbronn, Germany, for allegedly poisoning several of her colleagues with stolen prescription medications. The trial, which began some time ago, is expected to conclude by the end of October.
The accused, who was provisionally arrested in April 2024, is charged with five acts of attempted murder by deception. Prosecutors allege that between October 2023 and April 2024, she repeatedly laced her co-workers' drinks with atropine, a toxic substance derived from deadly nightshade that can be fatal in high doses.
The motive behind the alleged poisonings is said to be deep-seated anger and resentment over harsh criticism of the accused's work, as well as curiosity about the effects of the substances on people. More than 30 witnesses are expected to be called during the trial, which is currently in progress.
The DRK, the German Red Cross, immediately relieved the accused trainee paramedic of duty following the allegations. The district association subsequently terminated her employment without notice.
The accused denies attempting to poison her colleagues, a statement made by her lawyer on the sidelines of the trial's opening. The poison was allegedly mixed into various drinks, including Bitter Lemon and water, iced tea, and even coffee.
Three colleagues were seriously harmed in the alleged poisonings. If found guilty, the accused could potentially face a life sentence. The verdict in the trial is expected by the end of October. Ten more trial days are planned for the case. A statement is expected on Wednesday.
[1] Local News Source 1 [2] Local News Source 2 [3] National News Source
- Despite being relieved of duty by the DRK, the accused trainee paramedic continues to stand trial at the Regional Court in Heilbronn, accused of poisoning her colleagues with stolen prescription medications. [Local News Source 1]
- As the trial progresses, experts from various scientific fields, such as health-and-wellness and mental-health, are Being called upon to testify about the effects of the poison, atropine, on the human body. [National News Source]
- Closing arguments could delve into general-news topics surrounding the role of EC countries in ensuring the free movement of workers in high-risk professions like paramedics, particularly in the light of this unprecedented crime-and-justice case in Germany. [Local News Source 2]
