In Zoetermeer, the court may impose a contact ban as part of a penalty. This means that the convicted person may not seek contact with the victim. Violating this ban is punishable and can have serious consequences.
What Does a Contact Ban Mean?
A contact ban means that the convicted person may not initiate any form of contact with a specific person, often the victim. This may be accompanied by a location ban, also known as a street ban, whereby the convicted person must avoid certain areas.
Types of Contact Bans
- Liberty-Restricting Measure (article 38v Criminal Code) - A standalone measure.
- Special Condition - Linked to a conditional penalty or suspension of pretrial detention.
- Condition with TBS - During trial leave or conditional termination of TBS.
What Falls Under the Ban?
The contact ban may include various restrictions:
- Prohibition on telephone contact, sending messages or emailing.
- Prohibition on sending letters or gifts.
- Prohibition on entering areas around the victim's home or workplace.
- Prohibition on contact via intermediaries.
How Long Does a Contact Ban Last?
As a standalone measure (article 38v Criminal Code), a contact ban may last a maximum of 5 years. If linked to a conditional penalty, it applies during the probationary period, often 2 to 3 years.
Supervision of Compliance
The probation service in Zoetermeer supervises compliance with the contact ban. In some cases, an ankle bracelet with GPS is used to check whether the convicted person adheres to the location restrictions.
Consequences of Violation
Violating a contact ban has legal consequences:
- As a standalone measure: imprisonment for a maximum of 4 years (article 184a Criminal Code).
- As a condition: conversion of a conditional penalty to an unconditional penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions about Contact Bans in Zoetermeer
What should I do if the contact ban is violated?
Contact the police in Zoetermeer immediately (112 in case of immediate danger) and file a report. Preserve evidence such as messages or witness statements. The probation service or public prosecutor may take further steps, such as prosecution.
Does a contact ban also apply to online contact?
Yes, a contact ban may also prohibit communication via social media, email or apps. Indirect contact via others may also be prohibited. If in doubt, you can contact the probation service or a lawyer in Zoetermeer.
Can a contact ban be extended?
Yes, extension is possible if the court finds that a risk still exists. As a victim, you can submit an extension request via the Public Prosecution Service in the Zoetermeer region.
What is the difference between a contact ban and a street ban?
A contact ban prohibits all forms of communication with the victim, while a street ban specifically prohibits access to certain locations, such as a neighborhood in Zoetermeer. These measures are often combined.
Can I as a victim influence the conditions of the ban?
Yes, via a lawyer or the Public Prosecution Service in Zoetermeer, you can request adjustments or extension of the contact ban. The court ultimately decides, taking your safety into account.