Court in Oschatz sentences man to suspended sentence for child pornography

Court in Oschatz sentences man to suspended sentence for child pornography

An explosive verdict was passed in Oschatz: a 60-year-old man from the old district was convicted of possessing child pornographic files. This devastating footage, which shows severe abuse of children between the ages of two and ten, was discovered during a search in June 2023. In total, the investigators found 42 photo and video files that seriously incriminate the defendant. The offense of possessing, acquiring and distributing such content is punishable by prison sentences ranging from six months to 10 years, but in this case those involved agreed to a suspended sentence.

The judge handed down a sentence of one year and six months, suspended for five years, and a fine of 1,500 euros, which will go to Victim Support Saxony. The special thing: both the public prosecutor and the defense attorney waived further legal remedies, which makes the verdict final. This decision is seen by many as necessary, yet tragic, especially considering the defendant's difficult childhood. He grew up in a home, attended a special school and was convicted of sexual abuse over 20 years ago. Despite having completed sex therapy, there is no mental illness, but the defendant described the search as a “healing shock”.

Help for those affected and their relatives

The problem of child pornography is not only a legal but also a social issue. Affected children and their families often feel alone and overwhelmed. They can find support at the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), which provides crisis intervention and local counseling services. NCMEC's ​​HOPE team connects families with others who have had similar difficult experiences. It is important that those affected turn to trustworthy adults and in critical situations CyberTipline that offers support and information.

It is also very important that society is educated about images of abuse. The rapid spread of such images across the Internet is an alarming reality that affects not only victims but also their families. Carmen Kerger from the Dunkelziffer e.V. association. V. describes the existence of these images as lifelong abuse, which leaves the affected children little chance of healing. Everyone should be aware of the responsibility to report such acts and support the victims by contacting organizations such as the police or advice centers.

The social responsibility

The case of the Oschatz man takes another shocking turn in the long chain of abuse scandals that repeatedly make headlines. Respectful treatment of those affected and committed law enforcement are essential in order to take a stand against the abuse of children. Victims have a right to support, accompaniment and comprehensive help, which can be ensured through offers such as psychosocial process support. The issue is omnipresent, and everyone should be prepared to help ensure that these do not remain just acceptable isolated cases, but that society as a whole takes action.