Top editor at Germany’s Bild steps aside during probe into conduct

Julian Reichelt, editor-in-chief of influential German tabloid Bild, has stepped aside at his own request while an investigation takes place into his conduct, the newspaper’s publisher, Axel Springer SE, said.

In a statement, the company said it had called in external experts to investigate “possible compliance violations.” Springer said it could not provide further details as the investigation is ongoing. But it noted Reichelt denied the accusations against him.

“To make sure that the investigation process can be seen through to the end undisturbed, and the editorial team can work without further burdens, he has asked the Axel Springer Board to release him from his functions until the accusations have been clarified,” the statement said. “In the meantime, the release has become effective.”

The statement also said: “When rumors about other persons become concrete indications from persons concerned, the company immediately starts — as in the recent case — with the investigation process.”

It continued: “When indications become clear evidence, the Executive Board takes action. Currently, there is no such clear evidence. Prejudgments based on rumors are unacceptable for the Axel Springer corporate culture.”

In the statement, published on Saturday evening, the company said that Alexandra Würzbach, editor-in-chief of Bild’s Sunday edition, Bild am Sonntag, would take charge of the Bild editorial office during Reichelt’s absence.

Bild is Germany’s best-selling daily newspaper and also the country’s biggest news and entertainment website. It occupies a leading role in the country’s media and political landscape.

Axel Springer is a co-owner of POLITICO’s European edition.