Irish ex-priest in German custody for incitement
The 59-year-old has been in jail since the World Cup and has made a preliminary court appearance on a charge of incitement of the people. He is not due in court again until September and is expected to remain in custody in the meantime.
His family had become increasingly concerned as they had not heard from him for over a fortnight.
Kerry-born Horan, who is infamous for disrupting international sports events to get publicity for his religious messages, was arrested by Berlin police three weeks ago.
The arrest came ahead of a pro-Hitler demonstration he had planned, including lighting a candle to Hitler on the day of the World Cup final.
His brother, businessman Dan Horan, received a letter from Neil in the past week, in which he said he was being well looked after and that some good might come from his detention.
Dan said: “That came as a relief to the family, at least. Somebody from the Irish embassy got to see him on Thursday. He has also been seen by two doctors and is taking his medication.
He said his brother was also seen by a social worker had his own cell and a TV.
“But, the problem now is that the courts in Germany have gone on holidays for August and we don’t expect anything to happen until September.”
Asked if Neil, who lives in London, would learn a lesson from his latest term behind bars, Dan said he did not think so. Neil was in jail for six weeks after pushing a runner off the track at an Athens Olympic marathon and for a day after the running on to the track at the Silverstone Grand Prix, 2003.
“Being in jail doesn’t upset him at all and I’d say he’ll be doing things again.”
“He believes what he’s doing is part of God’s will and something that he’s meant to do. It’s his way of getting the message across.”
Dan said Neil plans to go to the German Parliament again.
Any form of public incitement is regarded as a very serious offence in Germany, Dan said, adding that “Neil has seen a solicitor, but if he’s found guilty he could be fined heavily, or even get a jail sentence” .
Some of Neil Horan’s family will go to Germany for the court hearing.
