A high-profile court case has erupted in Kyiv against a children’s coach in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, who is suspected of committing sexual abuse against young female students. The Attorney General stressed the need for the maximum punishment for crimes against children.
The suspect, a 37-year-old athlete, conducted individual sessions where parents brought their children intending to socialise and develop them. However, the coach began committing violent acts against one 11-year-old girl, disguising them as innocent lessons. The incident was uncovered thanks to a hidden camera that recorded his latest attempt.
New testimonies have surfaced in the publicity of this case. Another victim, a former student from Zaporizhzhia, who is currently abroad, also confessed to having a similar experience with the same coach at the age of 11. According to the prosecution, the first incidents occurred back in 2017, and for many years, the accused remained unpunished.
The actions of the defendant are classified as lewd acts towards minors and sexual violence against individuals under fourteen years old, which constitutes a recurring offence (Part 2 of Article 156 and Part 6 of Article 152 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine). The trial continues, but the accused does not admit his guilt.