Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has decided to press charges against Uriel Rivera Martinez, the man who was seen groping her in a video that has since gone viral.
In the viral video, Martinez is seen hugging Sheinbaum from behind and trying to kiss her without consent, creating a very awkward and uncomfortable moment for the Mexican president.
The incident, which was recorded by several witnesses and posted on social media, sparked outrage from users around the world and also raised serious questions about the president’s safety.
Reports say that although Martinez was not immediately taken into custody, he was arrested hours later and brought before the State Attorney’s Office for Sex Offenses.
Who is Uriel River Martinez?
Although details about Martinez are scarce, he is said to be 1.60 meters tall, with dark skin and black hair, according to Ambito Mexico, which cited arrest report.
Martinez’s occupation is currently unknown, as are the details of his mental health – it is not known if he suffers from any medical condition.
Martinez could face up to six years in prison, among other penalties: Sheinbaum explained that he was under the influence of alcohol when the incident occurred, adding that he was harassing other women in the area, which could increase his sentence.
Stamping fees
On Wednesday, Sheinbaum said during her daily press briefing that she had decided to press charges against Martinez.
“I decided to file a complaint because it’s something that I’ve experienced as a woman and it’s something that women in our country go through,” Sheinbaum told reporters.
“And my reasoning is that if I don’t file a complaint – even though it’s a crime – in what position does that leave all Mexican women? If they do this to the president, what will happen to all the young women in our country?” the Mexican president added.
The 63-year-old woman also called on Mexican states to make it easier for women to report harassment, stressing that women’s personal space must not be violated.
