Tatverdächtiger

Tatverdächtiger is a term used in German criminal procedure to designate a person who is believed to have committed a crime and for whom there is concrete, evidence-based suspicion. The status arises during the investigative phase (Ermittlungsverfahren) conducted by the Staatsanwaltschaft and police. It is not a declaration of guilt, but a non-final, precautionary label indicating that the person is under investigation. A Tatverdächtiger can become a Beschuldigter (accused) if charges are formally brought, or the investigation may be closed without further action. The designation can be changed or dropped if the evidence does not support the suspicion.

The rights and limitations of a Tatverdächtiger are governed by the criminal procedure rules. He or she enjoys the presumption of innocence and has the right to be informed about the specific charges, to consult and be represented by a lawyer, and to refrain from self-incrimination. Interrogations should respect procedural safeguards, including the presence of counsel where applicable. Detention or pre-trial custody is possible only under strict legal conditions and typically requires a court decision. In public discourse, the term signals a non-final status and may reflect media reporting on ongoing investigations, rather than proof of guilt.