Summary:
Court justified detention measures for three young men accused of rape in Loures.
Measures include prohibitions on contacting the victim and mandatory court appearances.
Public outrage led to an open letter signed by over 3,000 people demanding justice.
Concerns raised about a dangerous message of impunity following the court's decision.
The case underscores systemic failures in protecting victims of sexual violence.
Court's Clarification on Detention Measures
The Comarca of Loures issued a statement clarifying the detention measures applied to three young men suspected of raping a girl in Loures in February and subsequently sharing a video of the incident on social media. According to the court, these measures were "proportional and appropriate" to the precautionary purposes intended to ensure safety.
The measures include periodic court appearances, and a prohibition on contacting the victim or approaching her within 500 meters of her home or school.
Public Outcry
This clarification comes after an open letter circulated on March 31, titled "Sexual Violence and Impunity: The Loures Crime," demanding that the suspects be suspended from social media and criticizing the judicial decision to release them. Over 70 organizations and nearly 3,000 individuals have signed this letter, expressing indignation and alarm over the perceived message of impunity.
Legal Context
The court emphasized that the initial judicial interrogation of a detained suspect is not a trial but merely a procedure to apply precautionary measures to mitigate risks such as flight or interference with the investigation. It noted that the case is under judicial secrecy, and judges operate independently and impartially.
Systemic Issues Highlighted
The open letter highlights a systemic issue regarding inadequate precautionary measures for preventing crimes against women and girls. Maria João Faustino, a representative of the Portuguese Platform for Women's Rights, stated that this case will be a focal point in the upcoming electoral campaign, advocating for legal reforms to ensure justice and prevention of such crimes.
The suspects, described as YouTubers, allegedly assaulted the victim after she arranged to meet one of them. A video of the assault was shared online, viewed by thousands without any reports being made. The letter has garnered support from various feminist groups and organizations advocating against violence.
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