Leuven correctional court’s controversial ruling on rape case sparks outrage

The correctional court in Leuven found a medical student guilty of rape but imposed no punishment, citing his promising future. The ruling has sparked outrage and posed questions about the handling of sexual violence.

The assault occurred on 8 November 2023, when a young woman attended a Halloween party in Leuven. She became so incapacitated that she could not stand without help. The 24-year-old defendant took her back to his student accommodation, where he raped her.

The court acknowledged the victim was “in no condition to consent” and deemed the crime “serious and unacceptable.” Yet, the judge granted the perpetrator a suspended sentence, citing his youth, clean record, and career potential.

Failure

Critics have argued that this ruling highlights systemic failures in addressing sexual violence. Amnesty International estimates that only 10 per cent of sexual assault cases in Belgium are reported, and half are dismissed without prosecution. Even when cases go to trial, consequences remain rare.

Outrage has been particularly strong in this case over the fact that the convicted rapist is allowed to continue his medical career, especially as he is training to become a gynaecologist. Many see this as a disturbing ethical failure.

Reintegration

However, legal experts have offered a more nuanced perspective on the ruling. Liesbet Stevens, professor of sexual criminal law at KU Leuven, told VRT that such leniency is rare but not unheard of. She said that courts assess each case individually, considering both the severity of the crime and the perpetrator’s background. 

In this case, the defendant’s lack of prior offences and perceived potential influenced the judge’s decision. However, Stevens warned that while avoiding a criminal record may help reintegration, the absence of any follow-up measures raises concerns about preventing future offences.

Consequences

The ruling has fuelled widespread anger, particularly on social media, where many believe it reinforces a culture that minimises sexual violence. While the victim has found some solace in the court’s recognition of her assault, she is disappointed that her attacker faces no real consequences.

^{#FlandersNewsService | Students in KU Leuven’s university library © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND}