Cannibal on trial
The week's news at a glance.
Kassel, Germany
A German man on trial for murder says he is innocent because his victim volunteered to be killed and eaten. Armin Miewes, 41, advertised on the Internet for a volunteer to help him fulfill his cannibalistic fantasy. From among hundreds of responses from people longing to be consumed, he selected Bernd-Jürgen Brandes, 43, as his meal. At Brandes’ request, the two men first cut off Brandes’ penis, cooked it, and ate it together. Then Miewes stabbed Brandes to death and cooked and ate the rest of him. The defense is expected to introduce as evidence the videotape of the event, which reportedly shows Brandes as a willing participant. “I hope you’ll find me tasty,” he says.
Sign up for Today's Best Articles in your inbox
A free daily email with the biggest news stories of the day – and the best features from TheWeek.com
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
5 trips where the journey is the best part
The Week Recommends Slow down and enjoy the ride
By Catherine Garcia, The Week US Published
-
5 tax deductions to know if you are self-employed
The explainer You may be able to claim home office, health insurance and other tax deductions
By Becca Stanek, The Week US Published
-
Crossword: February 19, 2025
The Week's daily crossword
By The Week Staff Published