The Bern Higher Court has upheld a nine-month suspended prison sentence against former DJ Christopher S. The conviction stems from two separate fraud cases involving leased vehicles that he allegedly sold illegally. This ruling marks another legal challenge for the once-prominent figure in Switzerland's nightlife scene.
Key Takeaways
- Christopher S. received a nine-month suspended sentence.
- The conviction involves illegal sales of leased vehicles.
- One charge for fraudulent asset damage was dropped due to a withdrawn complaint.
- The court found his actions exploited a trust relationship.
Legal Proceedings Conclude in Bern
The Berne Higher Court delivered its verdict by post, confirming the earlier decision by the Bern-Mittelland Regional Court. Christopher S. had appealed the initial ruling. The court reduced his probation period from four years to three years.
During the proceedings, Christopher S. spoke of his desire for peace. He stated, "This process is my last construction site." He emphasized his wish for tranquility for himself and his family.
Background on Christopher S.
In the 2000s, Christopher S. was a highly sought-after DJ, performing in numerous clubs and frequently appearing in society columns. He continues to work as an independent DJ, though not as intensely as before. His recent years have been marked by repeated legal issues.
Details of the Fraud Cases
The conviction primarily relates to two vehicle sales. The first incident occurred in 2016. Christopher S. sold a leased Audi Q7 for 30,000 Swiss Francs to his apartment's next tenant. He received the money and gave the buyer the car for use. Later, he reclaimed the vehicle under the guise of needing to take it to a garage. The buyer never saw the car again. The initial court found this to be fraud.
"This process is my last construction site. I long for peace for myself and my family."
A year later, in 2017, Christopher S. sold a Hyundai Santa Fe that was leased to his wife. This transaction involved 31,000 Swiss Francs. At that time, a car garage had already transferred approximately 25,000 Swiss Francs to the leasing company for the vehicle's takeover. The Regional Court found him guilty of misappropriation in this context.
Key Dates and Amounts
- 2016: Audi Q7 sold for 30,000 CHF.
- 2017: Hyundai Santa Fe sold for 31,000 CHF.
- Prior conviction (2016): Guilty of incitement to arson and attempted fraud, serving a multi-year prison sentence.
Shifting Legal Landscape
A significant development occurred just before the appeal hearing. The garage owner, who was a complainant in the case involving fraudulent asset damage, withdrew his criminal complaint. Christopher S. had contacted the garage owner and made a "proposal" for the withdrawal. The garage owner then signed a declaration prepared by S.'s lawyer.
The court questioned the timing and nature of this proposal. Christopher S. avoided direct answers. Despite this, the Higher Court dropped the charge of fraudulent asset damage because it is a complaint-based offense. This means the charge cannot proceed without an active complaint from the aggrieved party.
Defense Arguments and Court's Findings
Christopher S. maintained his innocence throughout the trial. He described statements against him as "favors" to the injured party. He also suggested he was the victim of a conspiracy.
His defense attorney challenged the prosecution's evidence. The defense argued there was no written proof for the payments in the Audi case. They claimed the lower court relied solely on "unbelievable statements" from individuals close to the subtenant. The defense also highlighted the subtenant's criminal past, which included a conviction for document forgery.
Court's Assessment of Credibility
The Higher Court found the statements of the subtenant and three other witnesses in the fraud case to be credible. The court concluded that Christopher S. exploited the trust placed in him by his subtenant, who uses a wheelchair. The court also determined that Christopher S. had lied. The charge of misappropriation was well-supported by bank statements, chat messages, and emails.
Impact and Future
The conviction adds to Christopher S.'s history of legal troubles. In 2016, he was found guilty of incitement to arson and attempted fraud, leading to a multi-year prison sentence. This latest ruling reinforces a pattern of legal challenges for the former DJ.
The verdict is not yet legally binding. Christopher S. may still pursue further legal avenues. His desire for peace, as he expressed in court, remains elusive as long as legal proceedings continue.
The Bern Higher Court's decision underscores the seriousness of the financial offenses. It highlights the importance of trust in personal and business dealings. The case has drawn attention due to Christopher S.'s past public profile.
- Court: Bern Higher Court
- Sentence: Nine months suspended prison sentence
- Probation: Reduced from four to three years
- Main Charges: Fraud, misappropriation