Illegitimate betting activities in Berlin now generate revenue for the city
Berlin's model project, named "Asset seizure in administrative offenses," is a significant step towards combating organized crime, particularly illegal gambling. This initiative empowers administrative authorities to seize assets linked to such offenses without the need for a full criminal conviction.
The project expands the use of administrative seizure procedures, targeting the financial resources of organized crime groups engaged in illegal gambling. By confiscating assets derived from these offenses, authorities can weaken the criminal networks' economic base, facilitating a faster and more effective disruption of illegal gambling activities.
One high-profile case involves YouTuber Ron Bielecki, who is on trial for advertising illegal gambling. Bielecki was sentenced to a fine of 480,000 euros by the Local Court of Tiergarten for his involvement. However, Bielecki's lawyer has stated that he was not the operator of the YouTube channels on which these videos were visible, and Bielecki has appealed against this fine.
The potential income for the city treasury from these seized funds is yet to be determined. Typically, confiscated funds are redirected to public purposes to enhance crime prevention and support victim compensation. In Berlin's model project, the confiscated assets from illegal gambling are planned to be used to finance further administrative enforcement measures and support social programs aimed at preventing gambling-related harm.
The asset seizure project aims to make Berlin less attractive for criminals and generate funds for various city purposes. The seizure of money is considered a harsher measure under the "gross principle," which means the total amount can be confiscated without deducting associated expenses.
It's important to note that the Berlin Senate has stated that administrative authorities may enforce seizure procedures instead of fines, regardless of when the official model project starts. This means that the potential income for the city treasury from illegal gambling could potentially flow into the state coffers, making a significant impact on city finances.
The asset seizure project is a key component in Senator Dr. Felor Badenberg's efforts to combat organized crime. Badenberg, Senator for Justice and Consumer Protection in Berlin, has emphasized the importance of this project in disrupting criminal enterprises involved in illegal gambling activities.
Recently, there has been turmoil around gambling in Berlin due to high regulations causing more gaming halls to close, potentially leading to an increase in illegal gambling. This project aims to address this issue, making Berlin a less attractive destination for criminal activities and a safer city for its residents.
What if the confiscated funds from business activities related to crime-and-justice, such as Finland's illegal gambling, were used for general-news like social programs and prevention measures? The asset seizure project in Berlin's business environment, with its focus on finance, could potentially generate substantial earnings to fund such initiatives, thereby contributing to the diminishment of What form of crime that's become a concern in the city.
