Sexual assault on the Wienerberg: Syrian condemned and released!

Sexual assault on the Wienerberg: Syrian condemned and released!

In July 2023, a 23-year-old Viennese was the victim of a sexual assault on the Wienerbergteich, in which a 19-year-old Syrian was the main perpetrator. The incident occurred while the woman relaxed while sunbathing. The accused approached her, masturbated near her and asked questions about her relationship status. In the attempt to escape the harassing behavior, the woman wanted to leave the bathing place, but the Syrian followed her and urged her to remain sexual acts.

When the young woman tried to flee, the Syrian grabbed her from behind and tried to pull her into the bushes. According to Exxpress.at , the victim shouted loudly, which made the perpetrator let off and flee from her. Two cell phone photos of the woman led to the identification of the Syrian through a facial recognition program. In the subsequent legal proceedings, the Syrian denied the allegations and stated not to be able to remember the incident. He questioned the victim's credibility.

court judgment and consequences

The judge, however, said that there was no doubt about the victim's credibility. The Syrian was ultimately sentenced to a penalty of 30 months, of which he has to spend six months in custody. He also has to take part in sex advice and probation after being released. Another procedure against him, which is to be negotiated in March 2025, refers to another serious accusation. Despite the judgment, the Syrian leaves the courtroom without handcuffs and returns home.

A comparable incident also occurred at the Viennabergensich, where a 21-year-old Syrian was convicted of sexual harassment and attempted rape from a young woman. According to Kurier.at this incident was also made on July 20, 2023. After the incident, the woman suffers from post -traumatic stress disorder and has difficulty going out alone.

social relevance of sexual violence

Again and again incidents of sexual violence against women and girls are documented in Austria, according to a study by the Austrian Institute for Family Research. Statistics show that every fifth woman experiences very serious sexual violence. In addition, almost every third woman (29.5%) becomes a victim of sexual violence, and every fourth woman reports about rape. Frauenberatung.at emphasizes the need for structural changes and financial security specific support offers for those affected.

The situation is alarming, because according to studies, less than 2% of sexual violent offenders are quoted in court and not even every fifth indictment leads to a conviction. The number of sexual violence is high, which underlines social responsibility to take effective measures to combat and prevention.