Numerous cases of sexual assault occurring in public baths and lakes - Multiple incidents of sexual assault occurring in public baths and on the lake
In recent weeks, there has been a concerning rise in incidents of sexual harassment at swimming pools and lakes in the German state of Baden-Württemberg. The police are actively investigating these cases, which have primarily targeted girls as young as 6 to 15 years old.
Several men have been arrested provisionally by the police in connection with these incidents. In Stuttgart, a 28-year-old man is accused of sexually harassing two girls aged 12 at a public pool, while in Offenburg, a 43-year-old man is said to have sexually harassed a girl and a teenager at the Gifizsee. In another incident near Rust, a 31-year-old Romanian man is suspected of sexually abusing a six-year-old girl at the Rulantica water park.
The authorities have expressed deep concern for the victims, particularly the young children who have been traumatized by these attacks. The police have urged anyone affected by these incidents to come forward, and they are investigating potential additional victims in the recent cases.
Regarding prevention measures, authorities have launched educational programs on sexuality, consent, and respect for youth following similar outbreaks of sexual harassment around pools and water parks elsewhere in Germany. Some pools have also temporarily restricted access to foreign visitors after spikes in complaints, which reportedly reduced incidents. However, specific details about local Baden-Württemberg measures are not yet publicly detailed.
The police are asking for the public's help in maintaining a safe environment at swimming areas. They remind everyone to remain vigilant, report any suspicious behaviour, and support the victims in any way possible. The investigation into these incidents is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available.
[1] Baden-Württemberg police investigate multiple sexual assaults at swimming pools and lakes [2] Romanian man suspected of sexually abusing a six-year-old girl at Rulantica water park near Rust [3] Authorities launch educational programs to prevent sexual harassment at swimming pools and water parks [4] Police arrest several men for sexual harassment incidents at swimming pools and a lake in Baden-Württemberg [5] No further details about the arrested men or the individuals involved in the incidents have been disclosed
