The Court of Appeal in Katowice has upheld a 15-year prison sentence for a man who repeatedly abused a minor over four years, finalizing a ruling that includes a permanent professional ban.
Case Details and Initial Ruling
Last autumn, the Regional Court in Bielsko-Biała sentenced the man to 15 years in prison. The court also imposed a 10-year ban on any activities involving the education, treatment, or care of minors, prohibited contact with the victim, and ordered the payment of damages.
Final Verdict from the Court of Appeal
Following an appeal filed by the defense, the Court of Appeal in Katowice upheld the lower court’s decision on May 29. The Bielsko-Biała Regional Prosecutor’s Office confirmed the finality of the ruling on June 8.
Nature of the Crimes
Prosecutor’s office spokesperson Małgorzata Moś-Brachowska stated that the convict used physical violence to force a child under 15 into sexual acts repeatedly. The perpetrator remained in temporary detention throughout the investigation and subsequent trial.
Support Services and Data
Sexual violence constitutes any unwanted sexual contact. UNICEF data indicates that approximately 15 million teenagers globally have experienced such violence, though only 1 percent seek professional help. Research shows that 80 percent of rape victims develop PTSD.
Victims can seek help by calling the “Blue Line” telephone clinic at 22 668 70 00 or the Women’s Rights Center intervention line at 600 070 717.