Tenerife Man Avoids Jail for Homophobic Hate Crime

A man with a history of violence against women and a road safety offense has received another conviction. This time, it's for a hate crime after he insulted a gay couple in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 2023. He admitted the crime to judges at the Provincial Court.

The convicted man shouted homophobic slurs like "Fucking faggots, I'll kill you, I'm going to slit your throats; this is my neighborhood, get out of here," at the men. He also threw a beer can at them. The couple sought refuge in a nearby building, closing the door, but the attacker grabbed an iron bar and continued his threats until police arrived.

The prosecutor's office stated that the can thrown by the attacker caused scratches, abrasions, cuts, and a bruise to the young men.

Prosecutors had originally asked for a sentence of one year and nine months in prison, a fine of 3,835 euros, and 1,648 euros in compensation. They also sought a two-year ban on the man approaching or contacting the couple, and a ban from jobs in teaching, sports, and leisure.

Ultimately, the man received a sentence of one year and six months in prison for a hate crime involving a discriminatory attack and two counts against the victims' moral integrity. He must also pay 1,000 euros in compensation, complete four months of community service, and attend awareness and anti-discrimination courses.

This reduced sentence was part of a plea bargain, where the defense and prosecutor agreed to a lighter penalty in exchange for the man admitting his guilt. As a result of this agreement, which led to a final, non-appealable sentence, his prison term has been suspended. He will not go to jail as long as he does not commit another crime within the next two years.