Sexualized violence - Misuse of Minors: 71 Searches in Hesse
Investigators conducted actions against child and adolescent sexual abuse in Hesse, Germany, targeting a total of 69 suspects. Police searched 71 apartments, houses, and other premises, securing over 500 data carriers in the process, according to the Hessian Criminal Police Office (HLKA) and the General Prosecutor's Office Frankfurt am Main. The investigators are now reportedly examining the storage media.
These actions took place, according to the statement, between the 22nd and 26th of July. The cases are not connected, as stated. Against eight men aged 14 to 65, investigations are ongoing for child and adolescent sexual abuse. In contrast, 60 other individuals are being investigated in connection with child and adolescent pornography. One man is accused of rape. Additionally, a warrant was issued for the arrest of another suspect.
According to the police in Hesse, a total of 1,015 cases of child sexual abuse and 93 cases of adolescent sexual abuse were registered in 2023. Furthermore, there were reportedly nearly 4,000 cases related to child pornography and around 300 cases of adolescent pornography. The statement noted that the number of cases for the distribution of pornographic content has significantly increased - allegedly due to US internet providers being required to report punishable user behavior to national authorities automatically.
- The General Prosecutor's Office Frankfurt was involved in the joint investigation against child and adolescent sexual abuse, working alongside the HLKA.
- The LKA and the prosecutor's office are currently examining over 500 data carriers seized during the searches in Wiesbaden and other locations in Hesse.
- The ongoing investigations involve eight men, with ages ranging from 14 to 65, who are suspected of misusing children or adolescents in a criminal manner.
- The Public Prosecutor's Office Frankfurt has issued a warrant for the arrest of one of the suspects in connection with the child and adolescent sexual abuse cases in Hesse.
