German police are investigating multiple individuals for potential offenses following critical comments posted on Facebook regarding a recent visit by Christian Democratic Union (CDU) leader Friedrich Merz to Heilbronn. The investigation centers on remarks made under a police post detailing a temporary no-fly zone implemented during Merz’s visit, according to a police spokesperson.
Authorities are examining comments that included terms such as “Pinocchio” and “lackey,” which police believe may constitute insults. The Heilbronn police’s social media team flagged the potentially unlawful comments, initiating the investigation, which is being handled by the state protection unit.
A retiree from the region expressed shock after receiving a letter from criminal police regarding the matter, telling the Heilbronner Stimme newspaper, “This is a joke and completely disproportionate. When I told friends and acquaintances about the complaint, they all thought I was pulling their leg.”
The use of the term “Pinocchio” in relation to Merz is not new. Franziska Brantner, co-leader of the Green Party, and Stephan Brandner, a member of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, have previously used the same descriptor when referring to the CDU leader.
However, legal experts suggest the investigations may be misguided. Attorney Dr. Moritz Ott, speaking to the Heilbronner Stimme, argued that calling Merz “Pinocchio” falls under protected freedom of expression as guaranteed by Article 5 of the German Basic Law. Ott explained that “Pinocchio” is a fictional character and not a defamatory term, and therefore does not constitute an insult.
Similar cases involving alleged insults directed at public figures are typically dropped, according to reports. The police spokesperson stated that they are legally obligated to pursue any initial suspicion of criminal activity.
As of Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the investigation remains ongoing, and the Heilbronn police have not commented on a potential timeline for its conclusion.
