The Berlin public prosecutor’s office is now investigating Lichtenberg city councilor Kevin Hönicke (39, SPD) Photo: Ralf Günther
From BZ/dpa
The Berlin public prosecutor’s office has initiated an investigation against Lichtenberg district councilor Kevin Hönicke (SPD).
About a week ago it became known that Hönicke had been temporarily released from duty. A spokesman for the public prosecutor’s office said on Tuesday that an investigation was being carried out on charges of betraying official secrets. “We are at the very beginning.”
The RBB had previously reported on the investigation. When asked on Tuesday evening, Hönicke said that he had informed the public prosecutor’s office that he would be fully involved in the investigation.
The SPD politician Hönicke was responsible for construction, urban development, labor and social affairs in Lichtenberg. It remained unclear why exactly district mayor Martin Schaefer (CDU) had released him from duty. “In order to prevent damage to the district, I had to act like this,” Schaefer said days ago without giving any further reasons.
After the investigation became known, Hönicke said: “I have a significant interest in ensuring that the allegations against me are fully clarified.” However, he was still unable to comment because the reasons for the mayor’s actions were still not given.
“Respect for the office prohibits engaging in speculation in public.” Questions about the procedure should be directed to his lawyers.