Cottbus Mayor Accepts Fine Over Inaccurate Academic Title, Prosecution Halted

The mayor of Cottbus, Tobias Schick, has agreed to pay a financial penalty following an investigation related to a misrepresentation of his academic title. The local prosecutor's office stated that the proceedings have been suspended upon Schick's compliance with the imposed penalty.

The issue arose after it was discovered that Schick had listed himself as a 'Verwaltungs-Betriebswirt'--an administrative management graduate--on his previous campaign website. However, the designation lacked the specification 'VWA,' which stands for Verwaltungs- und Wirtschafts-Akademie, indicating the institution where the degree was obtained. The omission was identified in his public profile, leading to questions about the accuracy of his qualifications.

Upon recognition of the discrepancy, Schick acknowledged the error and updated his public information to reflect the complete academic title, including the VWA designation. He also provided a copy of his diploma from the Administrative and Business Academy in Cottbus on the city's official website, ensuring transparency regarding his educational background. His campaign site was subsequently amended to clarify that his studies were completed at the Technical Academy Wuppertal (Cottbus/Chósebuz location) and that his degree was awarded by the Verwaltungs- und Wirtschafts-Akademie.

The case was initiated after a formal complaint was lodged, prompting a review by the prosecutor's office. Authorities concluded that although the omission was not an attempt to falsely represent his credentials, the incomplete title warranted a financial penalty. The penalty, amounting to 3,000 euros, is to be paid by Schick within three months to a charitable organization as stipulated by the suspension terms.

The prosecutor's office confirmed the closure of the case following Schick's acceptance of the penalty and his cooperation throughout the proceedings. The decision to halt the investigation was made on the condition that the fine is paid in full, in accordance with legal provisions for such administrative oversights. No further action will be taken unless the payment condition is not met.

This event highlights the importance of precise and transparent disclosure of academic and professional qualifications by public officials. The authorities emphasized that even minor inaccuracies in official records can prompt legal scrutiny and result in consequences, reinforcing standards for public accountability.

There is no indication that Schick sought to deliberately mislead the public regarding his qualifications. His prompt admission and corrective actions were taken into account during the investigation, and the case has now been formally resolved.