Supreme Court Upholds Severe Sentences for Violent Offenders in La Orotava

The Supreme Court of Spain has decisively confirmed the lengthy prison sentences imposed on two young offenders involved in a shocking case of violent robbery and assault in La Orotava, located on the island of Tenerife. This ruling underscores the judiciary’s commitment to addressing violent crime with the seriousness it demands.

Case Overview and Judicial Proceedings

The Criminal Chamber of the Supreme Court has upheld sentences of 21 years and 17 years for the two individuals found guilty of a brutal attack that involved robbing, detaining, and assaulting both a Civil Guard officer and a woman. The severity of the assault was highlighted by the tragic outcome for the female victim, who lost sight in one eye as a direct result of the violence inflicted upon her. Earlier this year, the Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands (TSJC) had already confirmed the original sentences handed down by the Provincial Court of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in October 2024, marking a significant moment in the legal proceedings surrounding this case.

Chronology of the Violent Incidents

The court’s ruling provided a detailed account of the heinous acts committed by the defendants, who invaded the victim’s shed on two separate occasions, engaging in robbery and assault. During the initial incident, they attacked a Civil Guard officer, which led to one of the offenders receiving a longer sentence and being ordered to pay €150 in compensation to the officer. This initial act of violence set the stage for the more brutal second assault that would follow.

Details of the Second Assault

The second attack, which occurred on March 29, 2023, was characterized by extreme violence and cruelty. The perpetrators returned to the victim’s location, where they subjected her to a horrifying ordeal. They kicked, hit, and dragged her across the floor, demonstrating a complete disregard for her safety and well-being. In a particularly brutal act, they forced dirt into her mouth, and one of the attackers inflicted a severe injury by driving a spoon into her eye, resulting in total vision loss. After holding her captive for a harrowing two hours, they stole her mobile phone, bank cards, and wallet. The victim sustained significant injuries that necessitated a lengthy recovery period of 117 days, including five days spent in the hospital.

Judicial Findings and Appeals

During the proceedings at the Supreme Court, one of the defendants attempted to downplay her involvement by claiming she was unaware of the pointed object used in the attack, describing her role as “passive and incidental.” However, the court firmly rejected her appeal, emphasizing that she failed to present any new arguments that would warrant a reconsideration of her sentence. The court also dismissed the idea of mitigating circumstances related to her attempts to save money while incarcerated, stating that these efforts were not substantial enough to influence the severity of her punishment.

Both defendants were found guilty of multiple serious charges, including two counts of violent robbery in an inhabited dwelling, degrading treatment, aggravated injuries with malice, and abuse of superiority. Additionally, the defendant who did not appeal is facing further charges related to recidivism for an assault on authority, highlighting a troubling pattern of violent behavior.

Implications of the Ruling

This ruling by the Supreme Court serves as a critical reminder of the legal system’s stance on violent crime and its commitment to ensuring justice for victims. The lengthy sentences reflect the court’s recognition of the severity of the offenses and the lasting impact they have on victims and their families. The case has drawn significant attention, not only for its brutality but also for the judicial response that aims to deter similar acts of violence in the future.

Key points

• The Supreme Court upheld sentences of 21 and 17 years for two young offenders in La Orotava.
• The attack resulted in a woman losing sight in one eye.
• The Superior Court of Justice of the Canary Islands confirmed the sentences earlier this year.
• The defendants committed robbery and assault on two occasions.
• The second attack involved extreme violence and resulted in serious injuries to the victim.
• One defendant’s appeal was dismissed for lack of new arguments.
• Both defendants were convicted of multiple serious crimes.