Encamp Hotel Knife-and-Hammer Robbery Trial Ends, Sentence Set for June 17

**Encamp Hotel Robbery Trial Concludes, Verdict Pending on June 17**

The Andorran Tribunal de Corts has concluded proceedings in the trial of a 24-year-old man accused of robbing an Encamp hotel at knifepoint with a hammer last August, leaving the case ready for sentencing on June 17. Prosecutors seek six and a half years in prison plus €5,000 in compensation for the receptionist, whom they described as the main victim. The defendant's lawyer requests three years total, with only eight months to serve—time already spent in pre-trial detention.

The incident unfolded in the early hours of August 23, 2025, when the man, visiting from Valladolid for family and administrative matters, entered the hotel around 5:45 a.m. Wearing a cap, glasses, scarf and carrying a hammer, he went behind the reception desk, demanded cash and received about €900 from the safe. He then forced the worker outside to the garden and back inside "on all fours" before fleeing. Earlier that morning, between 4:15 and 5:45 a.m., security footage captured him smashing the tourist office door, entering private property and attempting other thefts, though prosecutors and defense differ on intent.

The defendant, who had been drinking heavily—six beers, eight glasses and shots—before consuming cocaine at his father's home, claimed rage from untreated depression over his mother's death, compounded by substance abuse and ADHD. A psychiatrist testified his reasoning was impaired but not eliminated, with no remote premeditation though some preparation like face covering. He expressed remorse in his final statement, apologising especially to the receptionist, whom he said "did not deserve it," and pledged ongoing psychiatric treatment. The victim described feeling "violated" after 20 years on the job, suffering acute stress but now recovering through therapy and resilience; he accepted the apology via the lawyer and hopes for no repeat.

Prosecutors argue economic need drove targeted actions for gain, not random destruction, citing concealment and intimidation. The defense highlights intoxication, psychological issues and positive prison behaviour, including rehabilitation programs.

Sentence expected June 17.