‘Teenage girls need protection, not reinterpretations of abuse’ - Victim Support
NGO warns against doubting abuse survivors after Justin Haber podcast
Victim Support Malta on Saturday expressed its "deep concern" about narratives that cast doubt on victims of sexual abuse in the wake of a controversial podcast featuring convicted sex offender Justin Haber.
The former national team goalkeeper was handed a two-year prison sentence suspended for four years and fined €7,000 for sexually harassing a 14-year-old employee at his Marsaxlokk restaurant between 2020 and 2022.
In a statement on Saturday, the NGO criticised the podcast, pointing out that it can retraumatise the victims.
"Questioning a survivor's credibility at this stage causes real harm," Victim Support said.
It added that any discussion about abuse involving teenagers must begin with an understanding of power imbalance, authority, and the duty adults have to protect young people.
"When there is power over a minor, meaningful consent cannot exist," the NGO said.
In the podcast, hosted by Ricky Caruana, Haber insisted he was innocent and questioned the credibility of the victim.
The episode drew widespread criticism, with the Malta Women's Lobby insisting "we should prioritise those who are suffering, not those seeking to launder their reputations."
Victim Support Malta added: "Safeguarding minors and supporting survivors is not about reputations or image management. It is about accountability, justice, and building systems that place the wellbeing of victims first. Teenage girls need protection, not reinterpretations of abuse. The responsibility lies with adults, without exception."