Rothenstein/Jena, 08.03.2026 – During the night into Sunday, unknown individuals defaced the facade of a local restaurant in the Saale-Holzland-Kreis with extensive graffiti. The Jena State Police Inspectorate has launched an investigation and is now seeking witnesses.
- Crime scene: Gaststätte „Zum Helenenstein“, Rothenstein
- Time of incident: Night from March 7th to 8th, 2026
- Damage: Extensive graffiti (red and black paint)
- Witness call: Information to the Saale-Holzland Police at 0361 574356100
Facade defaced with red and black paint
As the police announced on Sunday afternoon, the incident occurred between Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Previously unknown perpetrators targeted the exterior wall of the traditional restaurant in Rothenstein. They applied extensive graffiti using red and black paint. No information is currently available regarding the exact amount of property damage caused.
Investigators from the Saale-Holzland Police are now asking the public for assistance. Anyone who observed suspicious persons or vehicles in the vicinity of the restaurant during the night in question is asked to contact the police immediately by telephone.
Background: Vandalism along the B88
Rothenstein is located directly south of Jena on the heavily frequented Bundesstraße 88. Due to its location on a transit route, the police generally advise residents and business owners in such areas to exercise increased vigilance. Property damage through graffiti is not a trivial offense: In addition to criminal consequences under Section 303 of the German Criminal Code (StGB) (fine or imprisonment for up to two years), the perpetrators also face significant civil liability claims for the often complex and expensive professional cleaning of exterior building walls.
Source:
Polizei-News Jena, 08.03.26: Schmierereien
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