PIOTR ANTONI GLAS FROM JERSEY FOUND GUILTY OF CHILD ABUSE AND GROSS INDECENCY

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Jersey, Piotr Antoni Glas, a 61-year-old former Catholic priest, has been convicted on three counts of engaging in acts of gross indecency towards a minor. The conviction follows a detailed seven-day trial, during which the jury deliberated for approximately six hours before reaching their verdict. The court heard that Glas had repeatedly subjected a young child to inappropriate and abusive behavior, including holding the child's face against his feet while engaging in masturbation on multiple occasions.

Further details revealed that Glas had also play-wrestled with the child, pinning them down in a manner that involved trapping their head against what the victim described as his “semi-erect” penis, with the child's feet pressed against Glas’s face. These disturbing acts were part of a pattern of grooming and abuse that the prosecution argued was carefully orchestrated over a period of time. The court was informed that Glas, who is also known by the name Peter, was acquitted of two other charges, while two additional charges were dismissed earlier in the proceedings. Three more charges were also thrown out, leaving the core allegations intact.

Prosecutor Crown Advocate Carla Carvalho emphasized the grooming process that Glas employed before the abuse began. She explained that Glas had initially invited the child to walk on his back under the guise of relieving back pain. This seemingly innocent gesture gradually escalated, with Glas inviting the child to walk on his front and even kick his face. The victim recounted feeling “uncomfortable” during these incidents but had complied out of a sense of obligation or fear.

Detective Constable Caroline Foord, who led the investigation, highlighted the seriousness of the case. She stated, “This case underscores the grave nature of abuse of authority and the critical importance of holding individuals accountable, regardless of their social standing or position in the community.” She also praised the bravery of the victim for coming forward and reporting the abuse, acknowledging the courage it takes to confront such trauma.

During the trial, Glas maintained his innocence, claiming that the alleged offenses did not happen. However, he did admit to having an “issue with feet,” which he said led him to steal a bag of children’s socks from a local school. This detail became significant during the trial, as the victim later recalled feeling that there was “something very wrong” about the bag of socks, which appeared to be linked to Glas’s behavior.

The court also heard about the profound impact the abuse had on the victim and their family. The victim’s mother expressed feelings of guilt, stating, “I still blame myself,” revealing the emotional toll the case has taken on the family. The victim eventually confronted Glas directly about the abuse, leading to a series of messages and phone calls. During these exchanges, Glas apologized, saying, “I am devastated with myself, how I hurt you. I beg you for your mercy and forgiveness.”

Advocate Carla Carvalho pointed out that Glas’s own communications served as evidence of guilt, emphasizing that “there is no stronger proof of guilt than an individual’s own admission.” The court’s decision marks a significant step in addressing abuse cases within Jersey, and the community is left to grapple with the implications of this disturbing case.