Train Driver Under Suspicion of Abuse: Museum in Weinviertel Affected

The suspect was an employee of the Strasshof Railway Museum on the Northern Railway (Gänserndorf district) for many years. The assaults are said to have occurred in the museum. This was announced by the museum's operator, the First Austrian Tramway and Railway Club (1. öSEK).

"Unfortunately, we must inform you that cases of sexual abuse have occurred in the premises of our museum by this employee," it said in a press release. When the club's board became aware of this, immediate action was taken: "The employee in question was immediately expelled from the club and a ban on entering the entire club premises was issued."

Investigations by Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office

The Vienna Public Prosecutor's Office is investigating the man, who is accused of assaults on boys aged between 14 and 17 during the period from 2003 to 2021. Currently, there are no indications that sexual acts occurred due to the use of violence or threats. The prosecution does not currently assume cases of rape or sexual coercion. In any case, sexual harassment, cases of violation of sexual self-determination, and abuse of an authority relationship are at issue.

More People Ready to Testify Against Accused

According to APA information, there are at least six other alleged victims who are willing to testify against the train driver. The investigations against the man were set in motion after a now-adult victim filed a complaint against the ÖBB employee and described assaults that had happened to him as a teenager.

The suspect train driver was released from duty or suspended by ÖBB after the allegations against him became known in the spring. A dismissal procedure was initiated. The man is believed to have primarily come into contact with those affected by the assaults through the railway museum, where he repeatedly met boys who were enthusiastic about railways.

"The fact is that he worked as an employee at the Strasshof Railway Museum for many years. He was always considered very committed here. The museum operation and the communal work were always his priority," the museum operator stated in this context. They are "deeply shocked" by the incidents and have responded: "As an immediate measure, three ombudspersons have been appointed, to whom one can turn with confidence in any situation. Furthermore, we have been in close contact with the Vienna State Criminal Police Office for months, supporting the ongoing investigations and aiming to contribute to a complete clarification."

The 1. öSEK is a non-profit association with around 450 members, including about 150 volunteers. The central concern of the association is "an intergenerational togetherness to keep the history of the Austrian railway alive and to pass on the knowledge to the youth," it was emphasized.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.