Former Catalunya Ràdio Director Saül Gordillo Convicted of Sexual Assault

In a significant judicial ruling, Saül Gordillo, the former director of Catalunya Ràdio, has been convicted of sexual assault and sentenced to one year in prison. The verdict was delivered by the Judge of the Penal Court No. 7 in Barcelona on November 26, 2024.

The Incident

The incident that led to Gordillo's conviction occurred during a Christmas dinner party, where he was accused of making unwanted physical contact with a female journalist who worked under his supervision. The victim, a redactora (editor) at a digital news outlet, reported that Gordillo had touched her inappropriately, an act that has been recognized by the court as a clear case of sexual aggression.

Court Ruling

The court's decision was based on the testimony of the victim and the prosecution's evidence, which substantiated the allegations against Gordillo. The judge concluded that Gordillo's actions constituted a sexual assault, leading to the imposition of a one-year prison sentence.

In addition to the prison term, Gordillo has been ordered to undergo two years of supervised liberty and has been barred from working with minors. This comprehensive sentence reflects the severity with which the court views such offenses.

Background

Saül Gordillo served as the director of Catalunya Ràdio from 2016 until 2022, a period during which he was a prominent figure in Catalan media. His conviction marks a significant fall from his previous position of influence and respect within the media community.

Impact

The conviction of Saül Gordillo sends a strong message about the seriousness of sexual assault and the importance of holding individuals in positions of power accountable for their actions. It also underscores the ongoing efforts to address and prevent such incidents in the workplace and beyond.

For expats living in Spain, this case highlights the country's commitment to justice and the protection of victims' rights, particularly in cases involving sexual assault. The ruling is a reminder that such behaviors will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will face legal consequences.