National Police officers in the municipality of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Tenerife, detained a 39-year-old man without a prior police record as the primary suspect in a case of severe mistreatment within the family, affecting the children of his deceased partner. The incident triggered an immediate, coordinated response from law enforcement and child protection services as soon as concerns were raised about the welfare of the minors.
Shortly after the first reports emerged, a police operation was launched following a call from a person under 17 describing ongoing abuse by the ex-wife of the deceased mother, her 15-year-old brother, and the man who lived with them. The caller reported frequent beatings and punitive measures such as withholding meals, creating a perilous home environment for the children.
The minors remained largely noncommunicative while they remained inside the family home, venturing out only to attend school or training activities. They appeared withdrawn, fearful, and reluctant to disclose details about their daily life at home, a common response to sustained domestic abuse and intimidation.
Experts from the Family and Women’s Care Unit of the National Police immediately responded, visiting the training center where the youths were being kept safe. They coordinated with medical professionals to assess the minors’ health and ensure their protection. The children were transported to a nearby medical facility for a comprehensive examination. Medical staff documented multiple injuries, including reddened bruises on the legs, buttocks, and arms, as well as lacerations, signs of anxiety, tremors, and indications of malnutrition. These findings underscored the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for safeguarding measures.
Following the report and medical evaluation, the matter was referred to the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office. The court and youth protection authorities acted to place the minors in a secure environment where they could receive appropriate care and supervision in Tenerife, ensuring their safety while the investigation proceeded and their long-term welfare was addressed. The focus remained on safeguarding the minors and providing them with access to necessary social and psychological support, education, and a stable routine during this critical period.
The stepfather, identified as the accused in the investigation, was located in La Laguna and arrested on suspicion of ill-treatment. A judicial authority ordered an immediate removal from the family home, with protective measures put in place to prevent any further contact or risk to the children while orders and proceedings were being completed. The case continued to unfold within the framework of the legal process, with ongoing monitoring from prosecutors and child protection services to ensure compliance and the safe return, if ever possible, of the juveniles to a secure and supportive environment.