Ingebritsen's father guilty: mild punishment for hitting daughter!

Ingebritsen's father guilty: mild punishment for hitting daughter!

In a remarkable ruling by the Sør-Rogaland District Court in Norway, Gjert Ingebrigtsen, the father of the famous middle and long-distance runner Jakob Ingebrigtsen, was largely acquitted of serious allegations of violence against his children. This reports LAOLA1. However, he was convicted for a specific incident in which he hit his 15-year-old daughter in the face with a towel. This cost him 15 days in prison on probation and compensation of around 870 euros.

Ingebrigtsen was acquitted of further allegations, including violence against his son Jakob and his 19-year-old daughter. Only in the case of his daughter was he convicted of bodily harm, but not of the more serious accusation of mistreating close relatives. The allegations made against him attracted widespread public attention, not least because Gjert Ingebrigtsen has coached his children for years, including Olympic champion Jakob Ingebrigtsen.

Background and allegations

The allegations against Gjert Ingebrigtsen included physical and psychological violence not only against Jakob, but also against his daughter. However, he has always denied all allegations against him. Gjert's attorney, John Christian Elden, said the situation is putting enormous strain on everyone involved and noted that there are no winners in this case. The prosecution had originally demanded a prison sentence of two and a half years, while the defense argued for acquittal.

Because of the verdict, there is now the possibility of appealing to a higher authority. This procedure is symbolic of a larger problem that is being discussed in many countries: violence against children and the need for protective measures. In Switzerland, a Federal Council report from 2012 shows that physical, psychological and sexual violence against children by parents or other carers is widespread. This problem is not only addressed in the private sphere, but also requires government intervention.

Child and youth protection – a social concern

In the context of domestic violence, the discussion about measures to support and protect children is particularly relevant. Loud Federal Social Insurance Office Societies must develop concepts to protect children from violence and neglect. Physical and psychological violence in the family has not only short-term but also long-term consequences for those affected.

Overall, the Gjert Ingebrigtsen case reflects the complex issue of violence in the family and the necessary examination of the protection of children in society. Continued public discussion and legal proceedings on such issues are crucial to implementing preventive measures and helping affected families in the future.