Sex workers on trial in Berlin over client's death after anesthetic injections

Two sex workers face serious charges in Berlin after a client died following the administration of a local anesthetic. The women, aged 41 and 42, are accused of dangerous bodily harm and bodily harm resulting in death. Prosecutors allege they "grossly negligently" disregarded the significant health risks associated with the intravenous injection of the substance, which was administered as agreed with the client.

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she was horrified by what happened and still doesn't know to this day what the man died of.

The incident occurred in April 2024 at a dominatrix studio in Berlin-Charlottenburg. According to the indictment, the client collapsed during sex shortly after receiving the injections and died soon after. The prosecution contends the women acted with knowledge of the risks involved.

At the start of the trial, the defendants did not directly address the accusations but spoke through their lawyers about their personal circumstances. Both stated they worked as dominatrices part-time. The 42-year-old's lawyer conveyed her client's shock at the events and her uncertainty about the cause of death. She has since quit sex work and is now employed as a nursing assistant.

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he wanted to try it

The 41-year-old defendant had met the client in early 2024, and they had regular meetings at a hotel. Her defense attorney stated the man himself brought up the anesthetic, expressing a desire to try it. Investigators believe the 41-year-old asked her colleague for assistance with the injections, as she lacked experience with the drug. When the client lost consciousness, the women reportedly began resuscitation efforts and alerted the fire department. The trial is scheduled to continue with four more sessions until July 21.

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grossly negligently" disregarded the significant health risks associated with the intravenous injection of the substance