Eberhard von Thadden (1909-1964), a Doctor of Law, joined the NDSAP (National Socialist German Workers’ Party) in 1933 and the SS in 1936. He entered the Auswärtige Amt in 1937. When Wagner was appointed Chief of Inland II, Von Thadden became his assistant and deputy. Wagner and Von Thadden were friends. Als Judenreferent (Jew specialist) Von Thadden had personal contact with Eichman’s unit in the RSHA (Reich Main Security Office) and was directly involved in the deportation of European Jews.

Von Thadden submitted a testimony for Eichmann’s trial in 1961 and for Wagner’s trial in 1962. This testimony was one of the reasons that prompted the Justice Department to launch an investigation on Von Thadden in 1964. No conclusions were reached because Von Thadden died in a car crash in the same year.

• S. Weitkamp, Braune Diplomaten. Horst Wagner und Eberhard von Thadden als Funktionäre der ‘Endlösung’ (Bonn 2008).
• Verhoor E. Von Thadden, 5-12-1947, collectie gespreksverslagen 283, Archief NIOD