Eight years of imprisonment, followed by another four years under probation supervision and a ban on conducting any activities with minors for three years — such a sentence was handed down by the Criminal Cases Collegium of the Riga District Court to the former climbing coach of the Riga Youth Center 'Daugmale'.
The sentence is not subject to appeal and has come into effect, reports LTV.
The victim had been successfully training with this climbing coach for several years at both "Daugmale" and a private gym. The episodes of sexual abuse for which he was convicted occurred outside of Latvia — during a training camp and competitions. At that time, the student was 16 years old. The coach was considered an authority in this sport.
What can be done to prevent similar cases in the future? The Riga administration responsible for sports and informal education reported that all institutions, including the "Daugmale" center, have been provided with samples to improve internal regulations.
"Information about a trusted person — a school social educator, along with email and phone numbers, is posted in all places where 'Daugmale' classes are held. Free phone numbers for reporting are also provided. I hope these measures will yield results," said Dina Viksna, head of the Sports and Youth Department of the Riga City Council.
In Latvia, consensual sexual relations are permitted from the age of 16. However, there have been repeated cases where individuals in positions of power over teenagers have exploited this. Therefore, amendments to the child protection law are being prepared in the Saeima, which will raise the age of consent to 18 in such cases.
