Carinthia suspends officer over alleged Nazi activity and harassment

Carinthian police have suspended an officer under investigation for suspected Nazi activity and sexual harassment, ORF Kärnten reported. The State Police Directorate and the prosecutor’s office confirmed the investigation.

The allegations concern an employee of a police field unit. Police spokesman Rainer Dionisio said the officer was suspended in August because the accusations were serious. The State Criminal Police Office is investigating.

According to a report by the Kronen Zeitung, the officer allegedly drew attention among colleagues by impersonating Adolf Hitler. The report also said he was naked after showering and behaved inappropriately.

Prosecutor’s office spokesman Markus Kitz said officers had raised complaints about the conduct in discussions with a superior. Internal inquiries and witness interviews strengthened the suspicions, prompting the prosecutor’s office to open an investigation under Section 3g of the Prohibition Act and Section 318 of the Criminal Code, concerning sexual harassment.

Witnesses and the suspect have been questioned, and Kitz said the investigation should not take much longer. No decision has been made on whether charges will be filed. Any disciplinary action will depend on the findings, Dionisio said. The officer is presumed innocent.