Four Detained for Sexual Assault in Pamplona: Court Orders Provisional Imprisonment

The head of the Court of Violence against Women number 1 in Pamplona has ordered the provisional imprisonment, communicated and without bail, of four men detained for a sexual assault that occurred on the night of the 23rd near a university party in the Navarre capital. This ruling, which can be appealed to the Provincial Court, arises from the magistrate's concerns regarding potential evidence concealment and the risk of flight by the suspects, who are of Algerian nationality. Their ages range from 25 to 33, and they reside in Spain irregularly with no permanent address, making it impossible to ensure their presence throughout the judicial process. The charges against the suspects include sexual assault and robbery. Critical evidence in the case includes the victim's underwear, found near the tents where the accused were camping. In a hearing held on Thursday, the prosecution formally requested the provisional imprisonment of the defendants without bail, a request supported by the Women's Care Service, SAM. Conversely, the defendants’ attorneys sought their provisional release. According to the judge, the victim was discovered lying on a path, disoriented, semiconscious, and lacking personal belongings, including her underwear, bag, wallet, and mobile phone. Quick action from passersby helped alert both medical personnel and law enforcement, enabling the activation of the established protocol for sexual assault cases. A forensic exam subsequently revealed various injuries sustained by the victim. The ruling further cites that one suspect already had a criminal record, despite having spent a relatively short time in Spain. The judge confirmed the existence of a nonconsensual sexual encounter with the victim and expressed concern over the physical state in which the suspects left her. He stated that her condition could have significantly worsened if not for the timely assistance from nearby individuals. In addition to testimonies deemed contradictory, the risk of flight and concealment was highlighted due to the suspects' lack of financial means and documentation. Their tents were removed from public land due to violations of municipal regulations. As the court awaits DNA analysis results, the judge decreed provisional imprisonment based on the serious risk factors presented. This case stresses the seriousness of sexual violence and the importance of prompt judicial actions to prevent further incidents. Stay updated on this developing story by following El Huffpost. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2