Police raid a pensioner’s home over a “blockhead” meme
A 64-year-old Bavarian shared a meme calling Economy Minister Robert Habeck a "Schwachkopf" (blockhead). Habeck filed charges. Police searched his house. The case became the shorthand for Germany's debate over insult law online.
Summary
In spring 2024 Stefan Niehoff posted the meme on X. Habeck filed a criminal complaint. On 5 November 2024 police searched Niehoff’s home in Burgpreppach — the warrant cited further posts including one under § 130 (incitement). Bamberg district court later issued a penalty order (90 day-fines) concerning a different post; the insult proceedings were finally closed in October 2025 after Niehoff died on 31 May 2025, aged 65.
Debunking
False: “Police raided a home over one meme.” — The raid covered several posts, including an incitement allegation. But the fact that a “blockhead” meme was part of a search warrant is exactly why the case ignited the debate over § 185 and proportionality.