Another teenager arrested in connection with a presumably planned violent crime in Esslingen

According to the Public Prosecutor's Office, the planned act was directed against a young person from the group's social circle. Investigators initially did not provide details, citing the age of all accused and the ongoing investigations. In response to an inquiry from SWR, the spokesperson for the Cybercrime Center confirmed that the planned victim was a minor from the social environment of the suspects.

Lead from investigations into sexual abuse

Police originally came across the accused during investigations into suspected severe online sexual child abuse. While analyzing communication and devices, investigators found indications of the planned violent crime. During the searches on May 22, a knuckle duster was also seized from one of the accused; the arrests had taken place in the immediate vicinity of several schools in the Oberesslingen district.

Since May 22, another suspect has been in custody on suspicion of joint murder. A third accused was taken into custody during the operation at the time on suspicion of severe sexual child abuse. The remaining two – including the 15-year-old who was only arrested now – had initially been at large or not apprehended.

Previous arrests and custody status

The Public Prosecutor's Office spoke of a prevented serious crime. Investigators stated, according to the announcement, that the accused had planned a serious crime to the detriment of another person. The planned act was prevented by the swift action. Due to the age of all accused and the ongoing proceedings, no further details could be provided at this time, it was further stated.

At the end of May, the authorities had announced their intention to question further witnesses. Whether the investigations have since led to new suspects or findings was not communicated on Friday. The Public Prosecutor's Office referred to the advanced stage of the proceedings.

With the arrest of the 15-year-old, a total of three of the four originally suspected individuals are now in custody or detention. Investigations are ongoing. So far, it is only clear that the planned violent crime in Esslingen could be prevented and that the suspicion against the last arrested person has been strengthened after the analysis of his mobile phone.