Investigation into Hate Speech against Influencer after Baby's Death - German couple faces online hate after son's tragic death sparks legal battle
German prosecutors have launched investigations into hateful online comments aimed at influencer Lisa-Marie Straube and her husband, Fatih Akkaya. The couple, who lost their four-month-old son Xavi in February, reported receiving abusive messages accusing them of exploiting their child's death for publicity.
One suspect from Salzgitter is already under formal investigation by the Braunschweig prosecutor's office. A second potential author, based in Wuppertal, is also being reviewed for possible charges.
Straube and Akkaya, who gained public attention after appearing on the RTL reality show Temptation Island, faced a wave of online abuse following their son's sudden death. Among the messages was a social media post claiming their baby was 'better off now' and accusing them of profiting from the tragedy.
The couple, formerly residents of Dortmund, filed multiple criminal complaints against those responsible. The case was initially handled by the Dortmund Public Prosecutor's Office but was later transferred to Braunschweig due to the suspect's location. Prosecutors there have now opened a formal probe into one individual for suspected insults.
A separate investigation is also underway in Wuppertal, where another potential author of the offensive comments resides. Authorities are examining whether the remarks violate defamation laws or if they fall under protected freedom of expression.
Straube spoke to Bild newspaper, stating she intends to take legal action against those who insulted her deceased child. The couple had two children, including Xavi, whose death in February prompted the wave of online abuse.
The investigations will determine whether the comments meet the legal threshold for criminal charges. Straube has made clear her intention to pursue the matter in court.
Prosecutors in both Braunschweig and Wuppertal are now assessing the evidence to decide the next steps in the case.
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