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ÖBB train driver in serious case of abuse – six victims known!
An ÖBB train driver is suspected of sexually abusing six underage boys between 2003 and 2021. Investigations are ongoing.
ÖBB train driver in serious case of abuse – six victims known!
A suspected case of abuse is causing considerable excitement in Vienna. An ÖBB train driver is suspected of sexually abusing at least six underage boys and boys between 2003 and 2021. The allegations were triggered by a complaint from a victim who is now an adult and reported attacks in his youth. This complaint only came to light this year and prompted extensive investigations. Loud meinkreis.at The alleged victims were between 14 and 17 years old at the time of the crimes.
Despite initial reports of up to 19 reported victims, the Vienna public prosecutor's office has reduced this number to six confirmed cases. Given the age of the victims and the legal situation at the time, it is now being examined in detail which offenses can be investigated against the train driver. The allegations include sexual harassment and abuse of authority, but the public prosecutor's office does not assume rape or sexual coercion. There is also no evidence of violence in the crimes described.
Investigations and consequences
The investigation was initiated by reviewing clues and legal assessments. Authority spokeswoman Judith Ziska confirmed that consideration must be given to whether some of the acts have expired. In this context, contact with the boys affected is also examined in more detail; This did not happen in a professional context, but rather through common interests in the railway sector outside of working hours, like sn.at reported.
After the allegations became known, the train driver was “immediately withdrawn from duty” and dismissal proceedings were initiated. However, it remains unclear when ÖBB became aware of the incidents and why it may only be reacting now.
The situation of sexual violence in Austria
A look at the current situation in the area of sexual offenses shows that this problem is not isolated. The Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) recently published alarming figures. In 2023, there were 16,375 registered cases of child sexual abuse, an increase of 5.5% compared to the previous year. The majority of perpetrators are male and many of the victims have a previous relationship with them, often through so-called grooming.
The Internet is increasingly being used as a crime scene, which, coupled with an increasing number of tips, indicates that the social debate about sexual abuse and protection measures for children are becoming increasingly necessary.
Given this shocking case and the general situation, it is essential that education and prevention work be promoted in society. The protection of children and young people must have the highest priority.