Former local official accused of abusing a child

14 March 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

A former village head charged with sexual abuse of a girl under 15 faces up to 15 years in prison.

By prosecutors in Lower Silesia, a former village head charged after investigators accused a 64-year-old of abusing a girl under 15. Consequently, the case reached the district court in Lubin and carries a penalty of up to 15 years in prison.

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What prosecutors say

Prosecutors from Legnica filed an indictment against Jan B. They allege he abused a minor for more than a year. Moreover, they say the contacts began in October 2023. However, the most serious acts occurred after October 2024. In addition, the alleged abuse continued until August 5, 2025. Therefore, investigators charged him with repeated sexual acts with a child under 15.

former village head charged: procedural steps and detention

Police arrested Jan B. on August 20, 2025. Then prosecutors put him in temporary detention. Moreover, a court extended that detention on October 14, 2025 to January 17, 2026. However, judges later denied further detention despite a prosecutor request. Consequently, the court will now handle the indictment in open proceedings. In addition, the accused faces a maximum of 15 years in prison if convicted.

Local roles and why this matters

The accused served as a sołtys and as a local councillor. A sołtys acts as a village head and represents residents in rural Poland. Moreover, a radny means a municipal councillor. Therefore, the alleged abuse shocked the local community. In addition, such figures hold community trust and access to local networks. Consequently, the case raises questions about safeguarding in small villages.

How the case came to light

The girl’s mother filed a report in August 2025. She acted after friends warned her. Moreover, she found messages on her child’s phone. Therefore, she contacted police immediately. Investigators opened a criminal probe and collected digital evidence. In addition, prosecutors now rely on witness statements and forensic analysis.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: As an expat, know that Polish criminal cases can move slowly and involve multiple courts. You may see terms like PESEL (national ID number), ZUS (social insurance office), NFZ (public health insurer) and mandat (fine) in everyday reports. Consequently, contact your embassy or a local lawyer if you or your child face legal risks. Moreover, local police carry out investigations and prosecutors lead cases to court.

This story matters beyond one village. Moreover, it highlights child protection gaps in rural areas. Therefore, expats who live in small towns should teach children about boundaries. In addition, parents should monitor online contacts and phones. However, remember that reporting concerns to police remains the primary route for safety.

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