The Portugal Criminal Investigation Police (Polícia Judiciária) has arrested a 68-year-old retired physician on suspicion of 38 counts of aggravated child sexual abuse against his two grandchildren, ages 5 and 7, in Amadora. The arrest, executed through the Lisbon and Tagus Valley Directorate, came after the children disclosed the abuse to their father, who immediately reported it to authorities.
Case Details
• Timeframe: The alleged abuse occurred over approximately 10 months, from August 2025 through May 2026, at the children's residence in Amadora.
• Context: The suspect, a retired doctor, played a central caregiving role while his daughter managed shared custody arrangements with her ex-partner, relying on her parents for childcare during work hours.
• Current status: Following judicial review, the man was placed under house arrest with electronic monitoring.
How the Investigation Unfolded
The father filed a formal complaint with the PJ's on-duty unit in early June after his children confided in him about the abuse. Upon receiving the complaint, the PJ's Sexual Crimes Prevention Service launched investigative procedures in coordination with the Sintra Public Prosecutor's Office, which holds formal ownership of the inquiry. The priority, according to the official statement, was to "promote the safety of the children" through expedited action.
The Role of Trusted Caregivers in Familial Abuse
According to investigators, the suspect "took advantage of the natural relationship of trust and facilitated access to the grandchildren to perpetrate repeated sexual abuse." The suspect occupied a position of responsibility within the family dynamic during times when the children were in his daughter's custody.
Child sexual abuse committed by family members or trusted caregivers represents a significant portion of reported cases in Portugal and across Europe. This type of crime exploits the authority and access that comes with caregiving responsibilities.
Judicial Measures and What Comes Next
At his first judicial interrogation, the suspect was subjected to obligatory residence with electronic surveillance—a measure designed to restrict his movements and prevent contact with the victims. The 38 separate counts suggest investigators have identified discrete incidents, likely corroborated by forensic interviews with the children conducted by specialists trained in trauma-informed questioning.
If convicted, the man faces a cumulative sentence under Portuguese law, which treats each act of abuse as a separate offense with enhanced penalties for crimes against victims under 14 and for abuse by a person in a position of trust or authority.
Resources for Reporting and Support
Child sexual abuse is a public crime in Portugal, meaning any individual can and should report suspected abuse to the PSP, GNR, Polícia Judiciária, or local CPCJ offices.
Victims and families can access specialized psychological, legal, and social support through:
• APAV (Portuguese Association for Victim Support): Comprehensive services including the APAV CARE program
• SOS Criança (Institute for Child Support): Confidential helpline at 116 111
• Espaço Lara: Trauma-focused therapy centers in Porto and surrounding municipalities
• Regional psychological support responses (RAP): Available through the National Network for Domestic Violence Victims
When a child discloses abuse, the adult's immediate response is critical: believe the child, remain calm, avoid pressing for details, and contact authorities immediately. Confronting the suspected abuser is strongly discouraged.
