After Herbert Selpin made disparaging remarks about the Nazi war effort, the German army, and the Iron Cross, Zerlett-Olfenius informed on him to the Gestapo. This led to Selpin's arrest and death in Gestapo custody.
Was awarded the Iron Cross for bravery in WWI.
Zerlett-Olfenius served five years in a labor camp after World War II, because of his pro-Nazi activities.