Former train driver charged with sex abuse of boys in Austria

A former Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB) train driver faces multiple charges for allegedly sexually abusing and harassing underage boys. The Vienna public prosecutor's office has indicted the man, who is accused of offenses against nine victims. The youngest victims were 13 years old at the time of the alleged incidents.

The prosecution believes the crimes occurred over a 12-year period, between 2009 and 2021. The charges include two counts of severe sexual abuse of minors and one count of sexual abuse of minors. Other accusations fall under the category of violating sexual self-determination or sexual harassment.

The indictment was lodged with the regional court for criminal matters last week. It is not yet legally binding, as the defense has 14 days to appeal after receiving the document. The accused allegedly met most of his victims through his volunteer role at the Eisenbahnmuseum Strasshof, where many of the boys were enthusiastic railway fans.

Investigations began in spring 2025 after an adult victim reported incidents from his youth. The train driver was subsequently suspended from his duties by ÖBB. The museum operators expressed deep shock upon learning of the allegations last October and established an ombudsman's office, cooperating with law enforcement.