Attempted Rape of Lost Woman in Santo Tirso Leads to Arrest of Repeat Offender

Suspect with Criminal Record Detained by Porto Judicial Police

A 36-year-old man was arrested by the Porto Judicial Police (PJ) for the aggravated attempted rape of a woman that occurred on March 18 in Vilarinho, Santo Tirso.

How the Incident Unfolded

According to the PJ, the victim had just finished work and boarded a train to return home. However, she missed her intended stop and disembarked at the next station—an area she was unfamiliar with. The aggressor, who was traveling on the same train, also got off at that stop. Feeling disoriented, the woman asked him for help to find her way back, which he agreed to provide.

Under the pretense of guiding her, the man accompanied the victim, engaging her in conversation and exchanging personal information along the way. He then grabbed her and attempted to sexually assault her, but she managed to escape and flee the scene.

Investigation and Arrest

The victim reported the incident to local police authorities, and the case was subsequently transferred to the PJ. After intensive investigations, authorities were able to identify the suspect. He was located and taken into custody at PJ facilities.

Criminal Background and Judicial Proceedings

The detained individual already has a criminal record for property crimes, for which he served an effective prison sentence. He has been presented for his first judicial interrogation at the Matosinhos Court. Following the hearing, he was released under conditions that include periodic presentations to authorities and a prohibition on contacting the victim.