Wesel teacher charged over alleged sick-pay fraud

A teacher in Wesel, Germany, has been charged with fraud and document forgery after being away from teaching since 2009.

Prosecutors say she continued receiving pay while on sick leave and obtained about €248,000 she was not entitled to.

The charges cover March 2021 to March 2025, when she allegedly submitted ten false medical certificates despite knowing she could work.

Prosecutors also allege she made two diving fitness certificates using the false name of a doctor who did not exist.

The teacher has not publicly responded to the allegations, and she is presumed innocent.

If convicted, she could face several years in prison.

A separate disciplinary case over her employment status is on hold until the criminal case is decided.