14 girls assaulted in San Sebastián: Spain's 'only yes means yes' law under scrutiny

14 minors assaulted in a candy shop in San Sebastián

It is hard to digest that a candy shop, a place meant for children's enjoyment, could be the scene of a series of alleged sensual assaults. In the Amara neighbourhood of San Sebastián, the Ertzaintza (Basque police) has raised the number of underage victims to 14, aged between 10 and 18. The suspect, a Spanish man who ran the shop, has been held in pre-trial detention since 30 June. The investigation remains open and the Basque police are asking for the public's help in locating more victims.

The judicial controversy: the Montero law in the spotlight

In public debate, the case has peine the discussion over Spain's 'only yes means yes' law, championed by the Ministry of Equality. Part of the analysis points out that this law has led to reduced sentences in other cases, and there are antiestéticars the suspect could benefit, although no judicial decision has been made on the matter. The age range of the victims is also being questioned, as it complicates the investigation and adds further tension to an already troubling story.

The noise around the suspect's nationality

As often happens, any mention of the attacker's nationality raises suspicions. While the news identifies him as a 'Spanish man', some readers interpret the detail as hiding a different profile; others argue that highlighting or omitting such details always breeds distrust. It is background noise that does nothing for the victims, but it reflects the polarisation with which these stories are consumed.

The only certainty, for now, is that a candy shop in San Sebastián will never be the same again. And the uncomfortable question still hangs in the air: is the justice system prepared to respond with the severity that public opinion demands?