Barcelona, Spain – On Thursday, February 22nd, former Barcelona and Brazil footballer Dani Alves was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for sexual assault. The verdict by Catalonia’s top court follows a three-day trial where the court found him guilty of assaulting a woman in a Barcelona nightclub restroom on New Year’s Eve 2022.
The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous, testified that she entered the bathroom willingly after dancing with Alves but was then prevented from leaving. She further stated that Alves slapped and insulted her before forcing her into non-consensual sexual relations.
Alves denied the allegations throughout the trial, initially claiming, “I am not that kind of man.” He later admitted to having sexual relations but maintained it was consensual. His defense team attempted to depict him as intoxicated during the encounter.
The state prosecutor sought a nine-year sentence, while the victim’s lawyers pushed for 12 years. The defense countered with a request for acquittal or, if convicted, a one-year sentence and a €50,000 fine.
The court found Alves guilty, siding with the victim’s account and citing evidence in addition to her testimony. He was also ordered to pay €150,000 in compensation.
This case gained significant attention in Spain, coinciding with the implementation of the “only yes means yes” law in October 2022. This legislation emphasises consent in determining sexual assault, defining all non-consensual sex as rape.
The state prosecutor’s office will analyse the verdict and decide on a potential appeal. Dani Alves has the right to appeal as well.
This case highlights the ongoing conversation surrounding sexual assault, consent, and justice, particularly in light of recent legislative changes in Spain.
