Coimbra. 28-year-old man arrested for abusing his underage stepdaughter

A 28-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of committing several crimes of child sexual abuse, targeting the minor daughter of his current partner, in Arganil, Coimbra district, the Judicial Police (PJ) said on Tuesday.

“The alleged abuse, which constitutes significant sexual acts, began at the beginning of this year in Arganil (Coimbra district), in a cohabiting setting, and continued until last September. The victim was 11 years old at the time the incident began,” explains this criminal investigation force in a statement.

According to the PJ, “the investigation originated from a complaint made by a family member to the PSP, which immediately activated” the Judicial Police.

“This family member became aware that the minor was being sexually abused by the suspect, during a family outing, when everyone was visiting and staying in the city of Braga,” the PJ said.

This criminal investigation force adds that "given the solid evidence collected, the need to protect the victim and the strong possibility that the suspect will leave the country," it proceeded to arrest the suspect on Sunday, outside of flagrant crime.

The detainee, a foreign citizen, is being brought before the Coimbra Judicial Court for the application of coercive measures.