Concern at Independiente: the club reported three cases of grooming in its youth divisions.

Independiente is experiencing moments of high tension behind closed doors. The club confirmed this Sunday the existence of three alleged cases of grooming linked to boys from the club's youth divisions and announced that it has already filed a formal complaint with the Justice of Avellaneda.

The situation came to light after the father of one of the minors contacted the category coach to warn that his son had been a victim of digital violence. From that moment on, the institution claimed to have activated the appropriate protocol and began an internal investigation that led to the detection of two other similar cases.

"The relevant protocol was activated and the club's authorities met with the family at the social headquarters, along with the heads of the corresponding areas, and provided them with all the necessary assistance to preserve the minor's psychophysical health", the club expressed in a statement released on its official platforms.

"Following this incident, all areas of the club were notified to increase attention to this criminal modality", they added. According to the institution from Avellaneda, the interdisciplinary team from Casa CAI was key in identifying two new situations and escalating the case to the highest authorities of the club.

Additionally, Independiente reported that it has called upon the organization Grooming Argentina to develop preventive and informative talks at the Villa Domínico facility, aimed at both players and families and workers of the institution. At the same time, the club assured that it has begun to gather all the necessary documentation to proceed with the criminal complaint before the Prosecutor's Office No. 2 of Avellaneda.

"The Club Atlético Independiente reaffirms its absolute commitment to the protection of all children and adolescents, and will continue to work alongside professionals and specialized organizations to prevent and combat all forms of violence against minors", they concluded.

What is grooming

Grooming is a crime defined in Argentina by Law 26.904 and consists of the harassment of an adult towards a minor through digital means for the purpose of sexual abuse. Generally, aggressors build a trust relationship through social networks, online video games, or messaging platforms to obtain intimate images or manipulate victims.

For those who commit such crimes, the current legislation provides penalties ranging from six months to four years in prison.