The investigation was initiated because the radar's triggering threshold was set at 0 km/h, meaning that any movement near the device was recorded as "speeding." The device was installed in December but was soon dismantled. Nevertheless, an investigation into violations of data protection laws continues.
According to the city administration, the installation of the radar was necessary to monitor access to the Christmas market, as a fine of 50 euros was imposed for violating the entry ban. Local residents and politicians have expressed dissatisfaction that they were effectively photographed throughout the entire month. Gregor Fott, deputy chairman of the Free Voters party, stated that "online, I agree to lengthy data protection agreements, yet this camera recorded me as a pedestrian in public space without reason."
The data protection agency demands the deletion of all previously taken photographs and an investigation into the actions of local authorities. The Lübeck administration does not admit any wrongdoing, emphasizing that the measures were unusual but necessary due to the high number of traffic violations and a lack of staff. Representatives of the Christian Democratic Union described Mayor Jan Lindenau as "Big Brother," while faction leader Christopher Letsch characterized the camera as "absurd and senseless." In response, Lindenau rejected the criticism, asserting that "criticism without substance often leads to personal and unsubstantiated attacks," adding that it is from the CDU that he hears calls for the automation and digitalization of the administration's work.
Wolfgang Kubicki, deputy chairman of the FDP at the federal level, jokingly linked the installation of the radar to a possible increase in alcohol consumption during the pre-holiday days of December, suggesting that "this idea might have arisen under the influence of mulled wine."
