By The newspaper
Aug 28, 2023, 19:11 PM EDT
A new alleged case of child exploitation has come to light when Barcelona authorities arrested a 60-year-old man who was posing as a fake soccer scout.
The alleged predator targeted vulnerable children with promises of soccer training and future stardom, only to subject them to sexual abuse, according to a press release from the Mossos d’Escuadra, the Catalonia Police.
The investigation has exposed tactics used to “manipulate unsuspecting families and take advantage of innocent children.”
Authorities were alerted to the plan on August 4, when the head of a sports club contacted the Mossos d’Esquadra, the Catalan police. Several families had reported that the defendant approached them, claiming that he could groom his sons to become star players at prestigious soccer clubs.
His supposed credentials as a massage therapist, physical therapist, soccer coach, and personal trainer lent credibility to his intentions.
The investigation revealed that the suspect was targeting children playing in the streets and on playgrounds, often targeting families with limited financial resources. The defendants would promise these families a path to soccer stardom, taking advantage of their dreams of a better future for their children.
He used his made-up credentials to gain their trust, persuading parents to let him pick up their children and provide training.
The agents managed to locate the facilities where the alleged attacks occurred and managed to enter under the guise of investigators. Inside they discovered mattresses, children’s clothing, sports paraphernalia and disturbing accessories such as handcuffs and pet collars.
These findings supported the belief that the man was systematically exploiting his victims.
The defendant has a history of multiple incarcerations for crimes related to the sexual abuse of minors. Investigators suspect there may be more victims who have yet to come forward.
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