The verdict was reached in the so-called Wernges trial: both defendants were sentenced to life imprisonment for murder. The couple killed their 55-year-old tenant a good two years ago.

Lauterbach-Wernges – The case caused a stir in July 2024: Parts of a body were found on a property in the Wernges district of Lauterbach. The victim was a 55-year-old who had lived as a tenant on the farm. The landlords, a 59-year-old and his 44-year-old partner, were suspected of murder.

Defendant convicted of murder in Wernges trial

The two had locked up the 55-year-old with Down syndrome for months, neglected her and sedated her with medication. She then died of a pill overdose on January 23, 2024. Since In May 2025, the landlord couple went to court in Giessen.

Now the verdict has been reached: Both defendants have been sentenced to life imprisonment for common murder and grievous bodily harm resulting in death. In addition, the particular severity of the guilt was determined. The court followed the prosecutor's request. The defense attorneys announced in the courtroom that they would appeal the verdict.

The article will be supplemented later with further information.