Tenerife Court to Try Care Worker for Sexual Assault of Vulnerable Resident
The Provincial Court of Santa Cruz de Tenerife begins a trial on July 1st for a care worker accused of sexually assaulting a vulnerable resident, with the Insular Institute for Social and Socio-sanitary Care named as a subsidiary civilly liable party.
The Provincial Court of Santa Cruz de Tenerife will begin a trial on July 1st regarding safety and protection protocols in social and healthcare facilities. According to court documents, the Public Prosecutor’s Office is seeking a 13-year prison sentence for a care center employee accused of sexually assaulting a resident.
The case has caused significant concern because the defendant was in a position of trust, highlighting the vulnerability of those in care. Prosecutors state that the victim, who has a 65% disability rating, epilepsy, and behavioral disorders, functioned at a cognitive level much lower than her actual age. Because of this, the prosecution argues she was unable to give valid consent. They further allege that the defendant, who worked with the victim daily, was fully aware of her limitations and took advantage of her vulnerability.
The case also addresses the issue of institutional responsibility. The Public Prosecutor’s Office has named the Insular Institute for Social and Socio-sanitary Care (IASS)—a Tenerife Island Council agency—as a subsidiary civilly liable party. Because the care center had a collaboration agreement with the IASS, the agency could be held financially responsible for the requested 20,000-euro compensation if the defendant is convicted and unable to pay.
Expert reports indicate that the victim has suffered lasting psychological harm, including anxiety and a loss of self-esteem. The upcoming trial will determine the truth of the allegations and the extent of responsibility for both the individual involved and the organization tasked with the resident's safety.