Man on trial for multiple charges including rape of minors in Sweden

A 21-year-old man has been on trial this week, facing charges of rape and attempted rape of girls under the age of 15, along with other criminal offenses. In total, he is accused of 11 violations of the penal code.

Most of the alleged offenses occurred last year, with one reported in 2022 and another in 2021. Today, the court proceedings involved the prosecution and defense presenting their final arguments.

The prosecution outlined a consistent pattern in the man’s interactions with the young girls. He allegedly contacted them through Snapchat, and after some communication, invited them each on outings, such as car rides or movie nights, during which he reportedly assaulted them.

The defense argued that the young girls were also exploiting the man, claiming they received Ritalin and cannabis from him, and that many often gathered at his home for parties.

However, the prosecution emphasized that the man used the drugs to manipulate and control the girls, expecting something in return for providing them with substances. The 21-year-old has admitted guilt to some drug-related charges.

He is also accused of grooming, where prosecutors argued that, as an older individual with psychological dominance, he exploited vulnerabilities in some of the girls, including those with low self-esteem.

In contrast, the defense asserted that the man’s mental age is equivalent to that of a 16-year-old, based on psychological evaluation, and claimed he did not possess psychological superiority over the girls.

After the arguments concluded, the judge noted the case’s extensive and serious nature, deciding to postpone the verdict until Monday. The jury will deliberate behind closed doors, with the issue of guilt to be addressed in court on Tuesday.