Melanie Müller Fined €80,000 for Nazi Salute

Melanie Müller, a German pop singer and former reality TV personality, has been fined €80,000 (approximately $89,000) by a Leipzig court for repeatedly making a Nazi salute during a concert in September 2022 and for possessing illegal drugs. The court found her guilty of using symbols associated with unconstitutional organizations, dismissing her defense that the gestures were merely meant to energize the crowd. Video evidence presented in court showed Müller engaging in gestures and chants linked to Nazi slogans, with the judge noting her actions as deliberate. Additionally, drugs discovered during a search of her home included cocaine and ecstasy, which she claimed belonged to a friend. The fine imposed was substantially higher than the €5,700 sought by prosecutors, and Müller expressed shock at the verdict. Her legal team plans to appeal the decision, citing negative media coverage that they argue has affected her career.