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Latin Times
Latin Times
World
Mateo Moreno

Gold-Chain Robot Seized in Germany After Allegedly Groping Teen on Livestream

A humanoid robot dances to music during the Hannover industrial trade fair for mechanical and electrical engineering and digital industries, in Hannover, northern Germany on April 20, 2026. The fair opens its doors to the public on April 20 and will be running until April 24, 2026. (Credit: Photo by RONNY HARTMANN / AFP via Getty Images)

The Briefing

  • Cologne police seized a red-and-gold humanoid robot after it allegedly touched a 16-year-old girl and made thrusting movements against her on one of the city's busiest nightlife streets, opening a criminal investigation into possible sexual harassment.
  • The robot's 16-year-old owner and a 19-year-old companion are under investigation for allegedly filming the assault, livestreaming it on social media, and providing live commentary to their online audience as the incident unfolded.
  • Investigators must determine whether the robot's movements were remotely operated in real time or preprogrammed in advance — a distinction that carries major implications for criminal liability under German law, which authorities acknowledge has no precedent for this type of offense.
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