Sheinbaum Files Complaint After Street Assault, Plans Nationwide Harassment Reforms

Overview

• President Claudia Sheinbaum was touched without consent during a walk near the National Palace, an episode captured on video and witnessed by bystanders.
• Authorities identified the suspect as Uriel Rivera and transferred him to Mexico City prosecutors specializing in sexual crimes, with Sheinbaum saying he was intoxicated.
• Sheinbaum said she filed the case "as a woman, not just as president," called the conduct a crime, and emphasized that no one should have their personal space violated.
• The president announced plans to work with Women’s Minister Citlalli Hernández to review state codes to criminalize street harassment nationwide; Mexico City law already allows prison terms of up to four years.
• The incident renewed scrutiny of protection protocols and media conduct, as Sheinbaum defended remaining close to the public and criticized outlets for reposting the assault footage as revictimization.