Former Journalist Saül Gordillo Sentenced to One Year in Prison for Sexual Assault

In a significant judicial decision, the Barcelona Court has upheld a one-year prison sentence for former journalist and media director Saül Gordillo, following his conviction for sexual assault.

The Incident

The incident occurred during a Christmas party in 2022 at the digital media outlet The Principal, which Gordillo directed. A female journalist who worked at the outlet reported that Gordillo had touched her without her consent, leading to a formal complaint and subsequent legal action.

Judicial Ruling

On February 17, 2025, the Barcelona Court rejected Gordillo's appeal against the one-year prison sentence that had been imposed by a criminal judge. This ruling confirms the original penalty and marks a significant milestone in the case, emphasizing the seriousness with which such offenses are treated by the Spanish judicial system.

Future Legal Options

Although Gordillo's appeal has been dismissed, he still has the option to appeal to the Supreme Court. This potential next step could further prolong the legal process but also provides Gordillo with an additional avenue to challenge the verdict.

Background on Saül Gordillo

Saül Gordillo is a well-known figure in Catalan media, having previously served as the director of Catalunya Ràdio and the Catalan News Agency (ACN). His career has been marked by significant contributions to journalism in Catalonia, making the current allegations and subsequent conviction particularly noteworthy.

Broader Context

The case highlights the increasing scrutiny and accountability for sexual misconduct in professional settings, particularly in the media industry. It underscores the importance of consent and respect in the workplace and the consequences for those who violate these principles.

For expats living in Spain, this case serves as a reminder of the country's commitment to addressing and punishing sexual violence, aligning with broader European and international efforts to combat such crimes. The ruling reinforces the message that such behavior will not be tolerated and will be met with serious legal consequences.