Bavaria Awards Over €1.3 Million to Manfred Genditzki After 13 Years of Wrongful Imprisonment

Manfred Genditzki, who spent more than 13 years wrongfully imprisoned for a murder he did not commit, has been awarded a record compensation of approximately 1.3 million euros by the Bavarian state. This landmark case, known as the "bathtub murder," garnered significant national attention after Genditzki was convicted in 2010 by the Munich II district court for the supposed drowning of 87-year-old Liselotte K.

Despite an initial conviction and a subsequent life sentence upheld in 2012, Genditzki was exonerated in 2023 following new expert evidence that revealed the elderly woman's death was accidental, likely caused by a fall rather than foul play. He was released in August 2022, after spending over a decade deprived of his freedom and missing key moments in his family life.

The compensation package, approved by Bavaria's Justice Ministry, includes about 400,000 euros for the duration of his imprisonment calculated at 75 euros per day, over 450,000 euros covering lost income and pension contributions, and further allowances accounting for taxes and legal fees. This settlement resolves two ongoing legal proceedings related to the case.

In recognition of the profound injustice, Bavarian judicial authorities highlighted the traumatic consequences of wrongful imprisonment and emphasized the necessity for reforms. Measures implemented include establishing specialist departments for retrials, regular evaluations of expert witness selection and re-examination rights, and incorporating retrial procedures into legal training. Additionally, the Justice Ministry acknowledged the need to revisit compensation laws, particularly concerning deductions for provisions such as food and accommodation during detention.

The case has sparked public debate about the adequacy of compensation: while the awarded sum is substantial, commentators urge reflection on the non-monetary costs of incarceration, such as loss of autonomy, social isolation, and psychological harm. One observer questioned what price could truly compensate for a month spent in prison, underscoring the severe personal impact beyond financial aspects.

The Bavarian state’s acknowledgment and efforts mark a critical step toward addressing judicial errors and supporting victims like Genditzki, who endured a severe miscarriage of justice.