Former train driver charged with abuse of boys in Vienna

According to his defense attorneys, the man denies the allegations. He had long been employed by the federal railways, respectively as an ÖBB train driver, and had been involved in the museum exclusively on a voluntary basis. The defense announced that it would comment extensively on the charges in the ongoing proceedings.

Reaction of the Accused

The Vienna public prosecutor's office spoke of an extensive investigation that had dragged on for several years. Indications of the incidents had come from various sources, including statements from alleged victims. The precise charges and the number of affected boys were initially not specified in detail by the authority.

As an immediate measure, an ombuds office was established to cooperate with the law enforcement authorities in processing the events. According to the public prosecutor's office, this point of contact is aimed at possible additional victims and their relatives who wish to come forward and, if necessary, give statements.

Ombuds Office and Protective Measures

The Strasshof Railway Museum had already stated in an earlier statement that it takes the allegations very seriously and is working closely with the investigators. As soon as the allegations became known, it had immediately barred the accused from accessing the premises. The museum management also pointed to an ongoing internal review of procedures.

The case is meanwhile also occupying the political representatives of the region. In the district of Gänserndorf as well as in Vienna, demands are being voiced for a complete clarification. Citizens' initiatives and victim protection organizations have announced that they will closely monitor the investigations and the subsequent proceedings.

Outlook on the Trial

The trial before a Viennese criminal court has not yet been scheduled. The indictment and possible consequences will be decided in a public proceeding by a judge, with the public prosecutor's office expecting a conviction for aggravated sexual abuse of minors. A date for the main hearing had not yet been set as of Monday.

Regardless of the outcome of the proceedings, experts see the case as evidence of the need for protective concepts in volunteer-run institutions with access to children and young people. Child protection associations are calling for mandatory criminal record checks and regular training for volunteer staff who regularly come into contact with minors.

According to the Vienna public prosecutor's office, the ombuds office will in any case remain active. Those affected or persons who can provide information are asked to contact the established point of contact. Anonymous reports will also be followed up on, it was further stated.