A 69-year-old man of Spanish nationality has been detained by the National Police in Palma on suspicion of sexually assaulting a minor and provoking a child. Authorities say the suspect used his friendship with the child’s mother to gain access to the children and to participate in activities or outings where he could be alone with them. The case came to light after the mother reported the alleged abuse, noting that the man leveraged his personal connection to the family to enable access to the children when the parent was not present.
Investigators opened a formal inquiry following the complaint. The legal filing cites assault and sexual provocation involving a minor, and officials highlighted a pattern in which the man obtained access through the trust he had built with the family. Police statements describe the mother recounting several situations in which the man would leave the child in his care during after-school activities or social outings, presenting himself as a caregiver and a trusted friend who could safeguard the child’s safety.
Reports indicate that the man accompanied the child to extracurricular activities and remained with the child during outings where they were alone. It is alleged that the suspect offered gifts or money to win the child’s trust and to influence behavior during these periods. Investigators noted inappropriate interactions during those times, including exposure to sexually explicit material and improper touching. The allegations also include encouraging the child to engage in intimate acts such as kissing on the lips, which the child reportedly resisted.
The National Police Family and Women’s Care Unit quickly took charge of the inquiry. Forensic teams and specialists conducted a thorough review of the evidence collected at the scene and during interviews to determine whether the actions constituted sexual abuse of a minor and to identify any recurring pattern that could support the charges. Following the investigation, authorities arrested the man last Wednesday on charges including assault and sexual provocation against a minor, as well as related offenses tied to exploiting a vulnerable person, according to police accounts.
The case underscores the importance of vigilant reporting by guardians and peers when abuse is suspected, and it reinforces the duty of law enforcement to pursue credible leads. Officials emphasize that children deserve a safe environment in which to participate in activities without fear of exploitation by trusted adults. The investigation continues, and authorities say they will pursue all legal avenues to ensure accountability and protect the welfare of the child involved. Inquiries are being handled with sensitivity to the family involved and in cooperation with social services and child protection agencies as the case progresses. Ongoing oversight by law enforcement and judicial authorities will continue to provide updates as more facts become available, with transparency and due process guiding every step of the inquiry.