Ex-VRT presenter Sven Pichal, suspected of possessing and distributing child pornography, was released from prison on Thursday under strict conditions.
The media personality was released from Antwerp's pre-trial centre in Turnhout where he had been transferred in November. His appeal against an extension of electronic surveillance in Turnhout resulted in his release on Thursday.
Pichal's release is dependent on 14 conditions. He must participate in a treatment programme for sexual offenders, and he is forbidden from any contact with minors. He is banned from internet access, entry into hospitals, drug and alcohol use, and he must maintain a fixed residence.
In a statement, his lawyers Walter Damen and Davina Simons said Pichal is thankful for this opportunity and will take advantage of it to address his issues.
Pichal was arrested in August for suspected possession and distribution of child pornography. These revelations prompted his immediate resignation from VRT, where he presented the consumer affairs programme 'The Inspector' (De Inspecteur) on Radio 1. The Public Prosecutor's Office is currently drafting the final charges against him.
Scandal erupts
Pichal's initial arrest came about when a man reported that another media personality, a 34-year-old actor 'RDB', had shared explicit images of child abuse with him. Subsequent investigation led to Pichal's implication in the case, as he and RDB had exchanged child pornography via Bullchat, a dating app notorious for illegal content.
At the time of the arrest, Pichal had been participating in 'Media United for Love United' as part of Pride Week in Antwerp. The initiative champions equal opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community in the media, and was part of the 44-year-old's broader activism regarding LGBTQ+ rights.
Sven Pichal at Belgian Pride in Brussels in 2012. Credit: Belga / Kristof Van Accom
Before the damning revelations came to light, Pichal also campaigned on behalf of foster care. He and his partner adopted two boys in 2015. Both are now aged 19 and Pichal's lawyers have refused to give any information regarding the family's current setup.
Pichal was previously something of a cornerstone at VRT. He presented numerous radio programmes over the last 20 years, including the successful 'Peeters & Pichal' show with co-host Annemie Peeters from 2007 to 2012.
