German authorities have charged the daughter of Herdecke Mayor Iris Stalser with dangerous bodily harm, about eight months after the stabbing attack on the mayor.
According to DPA, Haagen Chief Prosecutor Bernd Haldorn and the defendant's lawyer Andreas Trode confirmed the charge.
On October 7, 2025, Iris Stalser was attacked with a knife. The prosecution alleges her daughter struck her mother multiple times with two different knives and also hit her head with an unknown object. The politician suffered various injuries, including a broken nose.
The Haagen court is reviewing whether to accept the indictment. Due to the defendant's minor status, the trial will be closed to the public.
Stalser recovered quickly and was sworn in as mayor of Herdecke in November 2025.
Stalser's adopted daughter was considered the main suspect from the beginning. Reportedly, she also called emergency services.
Lawyer Andreas Trode said his client underwent short-term psychiatric treatment after the incident but was later found to be sane. For safety reasons, the current location of the 17-year-old girl is not disclosed.
Iris Stalser was elected mayor of Herdecke on September 28, 2025.
