Police arrest hockey coach over alleged sexual abuse of child

Latvia’s State Police have arrested a coach from the Ogres novada Lāči children’s and youth hockey club over suspected sexual abuse of a child during a training camp, LSM reports. Police are seeking other possible victims and people with relevant information.

Police received information on July 24 about possible sexual acts involving a child. One camp participant reported facts indicating that a coach, a man born in 1999, may have committed sexual acts against a minor.

A criminal investigation into sexual violence was launched immediately. Police carried out operational measures and arrested the suspected perpetrator. A court remanded him in custody the following day, and he remains detained.

The investigation has produced material and established facts indicating that the number of victims may be greater, police said. They urged possible victims, as well as people with information about possible sexual offences, to contact them. Particular attention was requested from parents whose children attend hockey camps.

Police can be contacted at 63004340 or by calling 112.

The criminal case was opened under Section 160, Part Four of Latvia’s Criminal Law, concerning sexual acts intended to satisfy sexual desire through physical contact with a victim when committed by exploiting the victim’s helplessness or against the victim’s will, using violence or threats, or exploiting trust, authority or other influence, if the act caused serious consequences or was committed against a person under 16. The offence carries a prison sentence of five to 15 years and probation supervision for up to five years.

The coach had previously come to police attention in connection with drug use in 2022. Police said the investigation remains active and that evidence and information are being collected to help identify other possible incidents. They declined to provide further details in the interests of the investigation.