 In 1630, witch trials began in his territory and John ordered pastors to preach against the havoc brought about by witchcraft.In 1658, "Amtmann" Plebanus began prosecuting witches.In 1676, more witch trials were conducted in Idstein and, between 3 February 1676 and 31 March 1677, 31 women and 8 men were executed for witchcraft.