The Cantabrian defendant received a two-year prison sentence following a case involving sexual misconduct toward a 16-year-old passenger. The incidents occurred repeatedly while the youth rode the same bus between June and October 2021, with the man allegedly touching the girl’s chest and buttocks during regular contact on the vehicle. The perpetrator’s defense, presented at trial, argued that his actions were expressions of compassion toward his passengers, a claim the court ultimately rejected in light of the evidence. He also deposited 3,000 euros into the court account as a gesture during proceedings, a factor the judge considered when applying a mitigation that partly offset the potential damage caused. — Court records
During those months, the victim used the same daily bus route. On several occasions, and under the pretext of a hug, the defendant is said to have intentionally touched her breasts and buttocks, reflecting a pattern of inappropriate desire that the sentence describes as meant to satisfy sexual urges. This repeated behavior is noted in the court documentation as having a clear, ongoing intent rather than a series of accidental or sporadic incidents. — Court records
The judge described the minor’s testimony as persistent, consistent, and convincing. As the situation unfolded, it became clear to observers whether the actions were accidental or purposeful, with hugs and touches occurring with near daily frequency. The court notes that these gestures escalated and were recognized by the victim and others as intentional rather than involuntary, a detail emphasized by the presiding judge. — Court records
The prosecution, represented by a special prosecutor for the minor’s family, argued that the behavior occurred before the age of sixteen and exploited a position of trust. The defense’s stance did not negate the seriousness of the conduct, as the court found clear evidence of sexual abuse committed over a prolonged period. — Court records
In the judgment issued by the Third Division of the County Court, the defendant was deemed the author of a continuous sexual abuse offense, with the mitigating factor of criminal liability reduced by compensation. The court ordered a six-year prohibition on any work, trade, or activity involving regular contact with minors. It also restricted the defendant from approaching or communicating with the girl for the same six-year period, while a two-year probationary regime was set to monitor compliance. — Court records
The decision also provides for compensation to the minor for moral damage, set at 2,500 euros, reflecting the court’s view of the harm caused by the sustained misconduct. The ruling emphasizes that safety and protection for minors in everyday settings, including public transportation, must be upheld, and it underscores the responsibility of adults in positions of trust to maintain appropriate boundaries at all times. — Court records
Overall, the case highlights the challenges in cases of sexual abuse involving minors and the legal mechanisms designed to address these offenses. The sentence aims to deter similar behavior, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure that accountability accompanies abuse of trust on public services. The court’s findings stress the importance of vigilance in routine interactions and reiterate that persistent misconduct is not tolerated, regardless of any mitigating gestures. — Court records