66-year-old man held for sexual abuse of teenagers in unofficial religious community in Cluj
A 66-year-old man, leader of an unofficial religious community in Cluj County, has been arrested on remand. He is being investigated for rape and sexual assault against at least four girls aged between 15 and 18 years old.
66-year-old man held for sexual abuse of teenagers in unofficial religious community in Cluj
A septuagenarian who led an unrecognised community of believers in Cluj County has been held in provisional custody for a period of one month. The man is accused of rape and sexually motivated acts against at least four minors aged between 15 and 18 years old, according to Ziare.com.
Law enforcement from the Criminal Bureau of Cluj County Police Inspectorate conducted raids on two locations owned by the accused: one in Huedin, the other in Călățele. Initially, the elderly man was held for one day, and on 10 June magistrates issued a preventive arrest warrant.
Evidence gathered to date shows that, since 2023, the individual is believed to have used his status as a spiritual guide and moral authority over the congregation members. It appears he forced a 17-year-old girl to engage in intimate relations against her will.
Between 2023 and 2024, the same man is believed to have sexually harassed three other young women, all under 18 years old. The abuse allegedly took place during rituals organised at his residence in the commune, in the form of unwanted touching.
The religious group he led was not affiliated with any legally registered cult on Romanian territory. The leader used his influence to convince the young women to participate in private meetings at his home.
The investigation is advancing under the coordination of the prosecution, which is attempting to establish the full picture of the facts. Authorities are urging any potential victims or witnesses to come forward.
The Criminal Code provides severe penalties for such offences: up to 18 years' imprisonment for rape and sexual assault against minors.
Source: Google News RO — Crime (ro)