German Police Investigate Robot for Alleged Sexual Assault
Authorities are examining whether a remote-controlled robot sexually harassed a minor after the incident was livestreamed.
German police have seized a robot and launched a criminal investigation following allegations that it touched a 16-year-old girl's buttocks and made "thrusting motions" against her. The incident occurred on Sunday in Cologne and was reportedly livestreamed on social media.
According to police, a red and gold robot, approximately 1.2 meters tall, approached the girl from behind while she was with friends outside a fast-food restaurant. The robot's 16-year-old owner and a 19-year-old companion are believed to have filmed the event, potentially controlling the robot's movements and acting as commentators.
After being alerted, emergency services located the individuals involved and discovered the robot hidden in the trunk of a Volkswagen. Police confiscated the robot and two mobile phones belonging to the suspects. Investigators are currently working to determine how the robot was functioning and if its movements were deliberately controlled.
Police have described the incident as an "assault" and are considering charges of sexual harassment. The investigation is ongoing.