chapter capsules Chapter 18 — The Trial of the Century

May 1975 – May 1976, 27 pages: After three years of maneuvers, construction, and kidnappings, the trial begins. It is a monstrous affair: seven presiding judges, over a dozen prosecutors, an equal number of defense attorneys, and hundreds of witnesses. The defendants make sure that the proceedings are grand theater, with constant interruptions and outbursts. Defense lawyers request the removal of the presiding judge Theodor Prinzing 87 times. Finally, after proving that Prinzing is leaking trial documents to the press and lawyers, the defense attorneys succeed in having Prinzing removed on their 88th try.