Teacher Under Fire After 16 Years of Paid Sick Leave While Working
A teacher from Wesel Vocational College in North Rhine-Westphalia has been placed under investigation after remaining on paid sick leave for more than 16 years. Prosecutors suspect commercial fraud, alleging she provided false information to the state while continuing to work in alternative medicine. The teacher, whose name has not been disclosed, reportedly received her full salary throughout the 16-year period. Despite being officially signed off sick, she remained professionally active as an alternative medicine practitioner. No medical assessment by an official doctor was ever carried out during her absence.
Investigators recently searched her home in Duisburg, seizing documents and digital storage devices. The criminal probe focuses on the years 2021 to 2025, as earlier allegations may fall under the statute of limitations. Authorities are also examining whether the teacher and an employee of the Düsseldorf Regional Council failed in their official duties. During her extended leave, she even took part in a business start-up competition. The case has prompted North Rhine-Westphalia to announce stricter oversight for prolonged or recurring sick leave among public sector employees.
The investigation continues into whether the teacher committed fraud by falsely claiming sick pay. If found guilty, she could face legal consequences, while the state may tighten controls to prevent similar cases. The outcome could also impact how long-term absences are monitored in the future.
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