The canton of Aargau and the municipality of Untersiggenthal have mandated an external investigation to evaluate the protection of two foreign sexual violence victims following intense public and media criticism over official case management, according to regional authorities.
Authorities announced that the independent probe will examine whether involved agencies made errors while processing the case of a mother and her daughter, and whether decision-makers possessed necessary information at the time. Departments overseeing Economy and Interior, as well as Health and Social Affairs, joined the municipality of Untersiggenthal in commissioning the review. Officials stated the evaluation will also assess whether cantonal or federal legal frameworks require adaptation to guarantee adequate treatment and safer protection for victims in the future.
Investigation Timeline and Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The formal mandate for the external investigation will be awarded by the end of August 2026, with final results expected in the spring of 2027. Cantonal authorities clarified that separate administrative procedures concerning social assistance and residency permits for the victims will continue independently while the investigation moves forward.
Did You Know?
The external review was initiated after local media and the public raised sharp questions regarding the municipality’s report to the migration office, subsequent expulsion decisions, and the initial provision of only basic emergency aid to the victims.
Criminal Case Against Former Cantonal Lawmaker
The investigative measures parallel ongoing criminal proceedings against 57-year-old Patrick Frei, a former cantonal lawmaker for the Swiss People’s Party (UDC). Arrested and placed in pretrial detention in the autumn of 2023, the former politician faces serious criminal charges brought by the Aargau public prosecutor.
According to the prosecution, the accused allegedly drugged and sexually abused the Polish mother and her minor daughter—who lived under the same roof as the suspect—alongside a third victim. Citing the severity of the multi-year offenses, the Aargau parquet has requested a sentence of life imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who ordered the external investigation?
The investigation was jointly ordered by the canton of Aargau—specifically its departments of Economy and Interior, and Health and Social Affairs—alongside the municipality of Untersiggenthal.
When will the results of the probe be released?
The mandate will be assigned by the end of August 2026, and the final findings are scheduled for publication in the spring of 2027.
What is the legal status of the accused former politician?
Patrick Frei, 57, has been in pretrial detention since the autumn of 2023. The Aargau public prosecutor has requested a life sentence against him.