GERMAN PAEDIATRICIAN FACES TRIAL OVER ALLEGED SEXUAL ABUSE OF MORE THAN 70 CHILDREN

A 46-year-old paediatrician in eastern Germany has gone on trial over allegations that he sexually abused more than 70 children and young people over a period of more than a decade. The trial began on Monday, November 2, 2026, at the Regional Court in Potsdam, near Berlin. Prosecutors accused the doctor of committing approximately 130 criminal offences between December 2013 and November 2025 while working at medical facilities in Nauen and Rathenow. According to the charges, the alleged victims were between two and 20 years old. The case has attracted significant attention because many of the alleged offences reportedly occurred while the doctor was carrying out his professional duties.

The investigation began in November 2025 after the mother of a child reported suspected sexual abuse involving the doctor. Following the complaint, authorities arrested him and searched his electronic devices, where investigators reportedly discovered additional evidence of alleged offences. Prosecutors said several incidents allegedly took place in hospital patient rooms, while others were connected to medical examinations conducted at childcare facilities. The allegations also include offences involving a former patient who was reportedly 15 and later 16 years old at the time of some incidents. The doctor has remained in pre-trial detention since his arrest as investigations and legal proceedings continued.

During the opening session of the trial, the defendant reportedly admitted to almost all the allegations in a statement presented through his legal representatives. According to German broadcaster Tagesschau, he acknowledged the seriousness of his actions and expressed regret over the harm caused to the victims. His defence team indicated that he would provide a more detailed explanation during the proceedings. Fifteen affected individuals or their legal representatives are participating in the case as co-plaintiffs. The court has scheduled 18 hearing days, with a judgment expected around the middle of December 2026. Some portions of the proceedings may be held privately to protect the identities and privacy of the underage victims.

Meanwhile, the Havelland Clinics, where the doctor previously worked, described the commencement of the trial as an important step towards establishing the full circumstances of the case. The healthcare organisation said it had reviewed and strengthened its child-protection procedures following the emergence of the allegations. New measures include requiring at least two staff members to be present during sensitive medical examinations and care procedures, as well as appointing an independent child-protection officer. The case has renewed concerns about safeguarding children in healthcare institutions and ensuring that medical professionals are held accountable for their conduct. The trial is expected to continue until December as the court examines the allegations and evidence presented by prosecutors.