German ex‑transport minister Andreas Scheuer faces trial over alleged false statements about the car toll scheme
Executive summary: On 21 September 2026 the Berlin criminal court opened the trial of former Federal Transport Minister Andreas Scheuer, who is charged with making false statements to parliament about the legality and cost of the planned passenger‑car toll (Pkw‑Maut). The case is the first criminal proceeding against a former German minister for alleged perjury in an infrastructure‑policy matter, signalling a stricter stance on ministerial accountability and potentially affecting public trust in large‑scale procurement.
Who is involved: Key actors include former Minister Andreas Scheuer, the Berlin public prosecutor’s office, the Bundestag’s transport committee, and companies that bid for the toll‑collection contract.
Likely next: The court will hear witness testimony and expert reports over the coming weeks, with a verdict expected once the evidentiary phase concludes.
The trial marks the first time a former German federal minister sits in the dock for alleged perjury related to a major infrastructure project. Prosecutors claim Scheuer misled parliament about the legality and costs of the planned Pkw‑Maut, a vignette‑based toll for passenger cars. The case underscores the legal exposure of officials who approve large‑scale public contracts and could affect future procurement oversight. A verdict will test how rigorously Germany enforces accountability for ministerial statements.
What's next — scenarios
Acquittal (30%)
Scheuer is cleared of all charges, preserving his personal reputation but leaving the allegations of misleading parliament unresolved.
- Court finds insufficient evidence of intent to deceive
- Defense successfully challenges the authenticity of the presented documents
- Prosecution fails to prove knowledge of falsehood beyond reasonable doubt
Conviction (50%)
Scheuer receives a criminal penalty (fine or suspended sentence), prompting potential political repercussions and heightened scrutiny of ministerial statements.
- Prosecution presents documentary proof of knowingly false statements
- Witness testimony confirms deliberate deception
- Court applies § 153 StGB (false testimony) and imposes sanction
Plea deal / suspended sentence (20%)
Scheuer agrees to a reduced charge or suspended sentence, avoiding a full trial conclusion while still acknowledging some culpability.
- Defense and prosecution negotiate a settlement before verdict
- Court accepts a guilty plea to a lesser offense
- Scheuer agrees to remedial measures such as public apology or compliance training
Timeline
- — Pkw-Maut: "Nach meiner Erinnerung nicht gegeben”: Prozess gegen Ex-Verkehrsminister Andreas Scheuer beginnt (Handelsblatt)
Analysis — what this means
Sectors affected
- German federal transport ministry
- Automotive toll‑collection sector
- Public procurement oversight