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Over 140 proceedings and asset confiscation amounting to 280,000 euros
During the second statewide day of action against social crime in Hesse on February 26, numerous violations were also detected in southern Hesse. Around 350 officers inspected more than 100 properties. A total of 734 people were checked and over 140 investigations were initiated.
Among those involved were the South Hesse Police Headquarters, the Hessian riot police, customs, municipal trade and public order offices, job centers, financial and immigration authorities, and the regional government.
The inspections included restaurants, arcades, barbershops, nail salons, and other business premises. The focus was on violations of minimum wage laws, cash register regulations, undeclared work, trade regulations, and tax laws. Inspectors also checked whether employees were properly registered for social security and possessed valid residence and work permits.
Seizures and local measures
According to authorities, asset forfeiture measures amounting to approximately €280,000 were levied. In addition, officers seized about 20 illegal slot machines, 30 kilograms of untaxed tobacco, and 160 bottles without a deposit.
In Rüsselsheim am Main, the city prohibited a restaurant from operating due to a lack of business registration. In another case, criminal charges were filed for illegal employment and unauthorized residence.
In Mörfelden-Walldorf, tax investigators found fault with the cash register systems in 13 inspected establishments. In Bischofsheim and Ginsheim-Gustavsburg, proceedings were initiated for withholding and misappropriating wages, benefit fraud, and tax evasion.
In Gernsheim, inspectors discovered an unregistered worker at a restaurant. They also found evidence of wage embezzlement. The owner could face repayments of approximately €25,000 in social security contributions, as well as additional fines of a similar amount.
During inspections in Bensheim, Lorsch, Lampertheim, and Viernheim, seven illegal slot machines and untaxed tobacco were seized. Violations of fire safety regulations were also discovered.
Checks also took place in Darmstadt, Münster near Dieburg, and Erbach. In Erbach, four people were found to be residing illegally in Germany and working without authorization at two businesses. Appropriate investigations have been initiated.
(RED/ots)
