Jelgava man to be prosecuted over 20 years of sexual abuse against minors

In January this year, Latvia's State Police received information about possible sexual abuse of minors and immediately launched a criminal investigation. Operational activities led to the detention of a man born in 1967, who was placed in custody as a preventive measure. He remains in custody.

Multiple episodes uncovered

During the investigation, police carried out extensive procedural work and identified 18 episodes of criminal offenses committed between March 1994 and January 2015. Violations related to the circulation of pornographic materials were also uncovered.

A search turned up several data storage devices containing images and videos of child pornography, as well as material depicting sexual acts between humans and animals.

Charges and possible penalties

The criminal case has been classified under several sections of the Criminal Law, including various parts of Section 162 and Section 166, part four, as well as Section 123 of the former Criminal Code. Latvian law provides for up to five years' imprisonment for corrupting a minor, but if the offense was committed against a young child, the penalty can reach up to seven years' imprisonment combined with up to five years of probationary supervision.

On 18 August 2026, the case was handed over to the prosecutor's office to decide on initiating criminal prosecution.

Police noted that sexual offenses are highly sensitive, and victims often only come forward years after the events. Authorities urged anyone with information about possible criminal offenses to report it to the State Police without delay, while stressing that a person is not considered guilty until proven so through the legally established procedure.