American in Bogotá cleared of child‑abuse accusations after forensic probe

A 36‑year‑old U.S. citizen, identified as Gail Grant, was briefly detained in Bogotá after a video filmed on a balcony was interpreted online as a child‑abuse incident. Neighbouring residents recorded Grant appearing to interact with a four‑year‑old boy, prompting a police raid that uncovered three minors (ages 4, 7 and 15) in the apartment, who were in the process of being adopted by the American. Forensic investigators and the National Institute of Legal Medicine later ruled out any sexual violence, determining the boy was choking and Grant was attempting to help him. Colombian President Gustavo Petro and authorities confirmed no crime had occurred, and the man was released without charge. Grant’s lawyer, Fabio Humar, announced plans to sue the individuals who spread false accusations, noting that those responsible could face jail for filing fraudulent allegations. The incident, which had sparked widespread outrage on social media, highlights the dangers of rapid online judgment and the legal repercussions for defamatory allegations.