Investigations into subsidy fraud at the Brandenburg University of Technology!

Investigations into subsidy fraud at the Brandenburg University of Technology!

On June 5, 2025, police officers searched the offices of the Brandenburg University of Technology (THB) as well as business and residential premises in Werder (Havel). The Institute for Innovation and Information Management (IFII) and the associated digital work are at the center of the investigation. As the Märkische Allgemine reports, there is a suspicion that state funding was being cheated here. The Potsdam public prosecutor's office is particularly targeting two main suspects: Jochen S., the academic director of the IFII, and his wife Michaela S., the managing director of the institute and head of the digital work.

The IFII is a legally independent GmbH that complements the THB's research and further training offerings. The digital work specializes in helping small and medium-sized companies with digitalization, which was supported not least by an impressive 7.5 million euros in funding from the state, federal government and the European Union until 2021. However, the question now arises: How great is the assumed damage to the public sector? This number remains unclear at the moment as evidence from the searches is still being evaluated. The authorities also stated that the investigation was not directed against members of the university management or university administration.

Focus on subsidy fraud

The suspicion of subsidy fraud not only concerns the THB and its partners, but is also a recurring topic in Germany. The number of investigations in this area has increased rapidly, especially since the Corona pandemic. From 318 cases in 2019, the number shot up to 7,585 in 2020. These developments are closely related to the state Corona aid, which is intended to support companies in economic emergencies. In many cases it is unclear what information is actually necessary to submit an application, which poses challenges for both applicants and advisors.

Subsidy fraud according to Section 264 of the Criminal Code occurs when subsidies are obtained through false or incomplete information or by concealing relevant information. In serious cases, penalties of up to ten years' imprisonment can be imposed, in addition to disqualification from holding office or the confiscation of misused funds. This often happens through icing on the cake: exaggerating sales losses or concealing other sources of income.

Penalties and options for action

As part of the investigation, it is not only important to clarify the allegations, but also to weigh up possible consequences for those affected. In the best case scenario, a repayment of the funding amount could reduce the penalty. There is also the option of self-disclosure without being punished if the subsidy has not yet been paid out. It is therefore crucial for Jochen S. and Michaela S. to act quickly and get competent support in order to clarify their situation in the context of this complex legal situation.

Anyone affected in such a situation should rely on the expertise of criminal law specialists who can help examine the allegations and develop individual defense strategies. Taking action against subsidy fraud is more important than ever in order to protect public assets and ensure that government funding measures are earmarked.