Sexual Abuse of Children: Over 13 Years in Prison for Former Soccer Coach in Essen - Former Soccer Coach Sentenced for Abusing Boys Over 17 Years
A former youth soccer coach has been sentenced for abusing four boys aged between 8 and 15. The trial, held mostly in camera, resulted in a prison term and compensation for the victims.
The 59-year-old defendant, who worked as a coach at various clubs including one in Graz in 2012, abused the boys over several years, from 2008 to early 2025. The prosecution sought a 14.5-year sentence and preventive detention, but the court handed down a term of over 13 years.
The defense had requested no more than 9 years. The trial was mostly closed to the public, and a total of €40,000 in compensation was ordered to be paid to three of the victims.
The convicted coach's actions have had a significant impact on the lives of the victims. The court's decision aims to provide some measure of justice and compensation for the harm caused.
