Four young individuals are set to stand trial for disturbances caused at a Specialized Youth Shelter in Castro Verde, Beja district.
The incidents occurred between December 2023 and January 2024, when the youths, who were institutionalized, became involved in acts of aggression both amongst themselves and towards the institution’s staff.
According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, the individuals involved, now aged 18 and 19, are accused of engaging in insults, threats, and vandalism of facilities and vehicles.
An inquiry led by the Regional Department of Investigation and Penal Action [DIAP] of Évora investigated several serious incidents of disorder and disturbances involving youths housed there. Following the completion of investigative proceedings, the four defendants face charges of 21 crimes of bodily harm, some qualified, 16 crimes of threat, some aggravated, 7 crimes of aggravated insult, 10 crimes of damage, some qualified, 2 crimes of trespassing, and 1 crime of robbery.
The inquiry also noted that a complaint alleging abuse by the institution’s staff against the sheltered youths was dismissed due to lack of evidence.
The proceedings were handled by the DIAP Regional of Évora, with the Public Prosecutor’s Office fully undertaking the investigative actions.
