In September 1630, Ferdinand’s confessor told the emperor that if he continued to ignore the lawlessness of the Bamberg courts, he could hardly give him absolution.
In September 1630 and June 1631, Ferdinand issued strong directives opposing the persecution in Bamberg. The emperor ordered that in future trials the basis for accusations be made public, legal counsel be allowed to the defendants and confiscation of property cease. He also appointed an official, known to be opposed to the witch-hunts, as head of the Bamberg witch commission.