Sexual Abuse: Nearly 30 Cases Against Caregivers - Hessen probes surge in child sexual abuse cases at daycare centers in 2025
The Hessian Ministry of Justice has reported a rise in investigations into child sexual abuse within daycare settings. In 2025 alone, 28 educators faced legal scrutiny over such allegations. The issue has prompted stronger prevention measures, including training and collaborative initiatives with local authorities.
In 2024, the ministry recorded 22 cases involving criminal complaints related to daycare children. The following year saw a sharper focus on investigations, with 28 proceedings launched against educators suspected of child sexual abuse. However, no public records detail how many of these cases resulted in indictments or formal charges.
The AfD parliamentary group previously requested data on complaints filed by parents, but the ministry confirmed it does not track such figures. Meanwhile, the Evangelical Church in Hessen and Nassau (EKHN) reported 45 suspected or confirmed cases of sexualised violence against children by November 2024, though prosecutorial outcomes remain unclear.
To address the problem, child sexual abuse prevention was added to the training curriculum for state-certified childcare workers. In March 2024, the 'Operation Shield' initiative was introduced to strengthen safeguards in daycare centers and schools. The effort involves close cooperation with local authorities responsible for overseeing educational institutions.
The increase in investigations highlights ongoing concerns about child safety in daycare environments. Prevention programs and legal actions continue, with authorities emphasising training and collaboration. The exact number of prosecutions, however, remains undisclosed in public records.
