A shocking scandal has erupted in Poltava Oblast: the head and coach of one of Kremenchuk’s local dance ensembles is suspected of years-long sexual corruption and abuse of young children and minors who were his pupils. This was reported by the head of the Kremenchuk District Prosecutor’s Office, Oleg Balayev.
How the crimes were uncovered
Law enforcement learned about the horrifying incidents while monitoring social media. Former members of the dance ensemble began publicly sharing memories of cruel treatment and sexual harassment by their instructor. The prosecutor’s office immediately responded to these posts and opened a pre-trial investigation.
Details of the investigation
According to law enforcement, the suspect operated according to an established scheme: under various fabricated pretexts he lured girls into his office, where he committed sexual violence and lewd acts against them.
The investigation has officially identified four female victims. The crimes against them were committed during their childhood — from the summer of 1982 up to the spring of 2014.
What the coach is accused of
After conducting forensic psychological examinations, the ensemble leader was informed of suspicion under four articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (according to the version of the law in force at the time the crimes were committed):
- committing lewd acts against a person under 16 years of age;
- lewd acts against a young child by a person responsible for their upbringing;
- attempted gratification of sexual desire by unnatural means using the victim’s helpless condition;
- gratification of sexual desire by unnatural means with respect to a young child.
Authorities are currently deciding on suspending the suspect from his position and on imposing a preventive measure.
Note: According to Article 62 of the Constitution of Ukraine, a person is presumed innocent of committing a crime until their guilt is proven in accordance with the law and established by a court verdict.
