Andorra Court Reviews Groping Conviction Appeal Over Blurry Nightclub Footage

Andorra's Superior Court heard oral arguments yesterday in the appeal of a man convicted of sexual assault for groping a woman's breast at a central nightclub in May 2024. The Corts Court ruling is under review amid disputes over blurry security footage, with the defence seeking acquittal and prosecutors pushing for a 12-month suspended sentence over four years.

The defendant, who was dancing alone while intoxicated with friends nearby, insists any contact was accidental. He told the court that a passerby pushed him near the bar, causing his hand to brush the woman's waist. Wearing a dark sweater, he argues the video—captured by low-quality cameras—shows his arm reaching only the abdominal area, covered by clothing, with no evidence of breast contact. His lawyer stressed that a brief touch over clothes lacks the intent needed for sexual assault, calling it a result of the shove rather than a deliberate act against her sexual freedom.

Prosecutors reject this account, pointing to the footage as showing the man's hand sliding under the woman's armpit before quick withdrawal—not a mere graze. They note her immediate sharp turn with a surprised and distressed expression, backed by her partner who was present and police officers who intervened soon after. Despite the man's blood alcohol level of 1.70 g/l, the fiscalia maintains he was conscious enough for the act to be intentional.

The defence highlighted the video's poor resolution, arguing it was misinterpreted in the initial trial. A ruling on the appeal is expected in January.