Coach accused of sexually abusing child in Algarve released pending trial

A 29-year-old sports coach arrested in Vila Real de Santo António on suspicion of sexually abusing a 12-year-old child has been released pending trial after being ordered to report regularly to police and banned from contacting minors.

The suspect was detained on Monday by the Polícia Judiciária (PJ) following an investigation into alleged offences committed during training sessions he supervised.

According to the criminal police force, the man is suspected of exploiting his position of authority and the trust placed in him to send the child sexually explicit images and videos of himself via electronic communications.

Investigators carried out house searches and arrested the suspect after gathering what they described as strong evidence. During the searches, officers also seized material considered important to the investigation.

The PJ believes there may be additional child victims and said the investigation remains ongoing.

Following his first judicial interrogation on Tuesday, an investigating judge ordered the suspect to report periodically to police and prohibited him from contacting minors while the case proceeds, a police source told Lusa. It was not revealed how frequently the suspect will have to report to police.

The investigation is being led by the Public Prosecutor’s Office (DIAP) in Vila Real de Santo António.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.