In Zoetermeer and surrounding areas, the crown witness arrangement can play an important role in cases involving serious organised crime. A crown witness is someone who, as a suspect or convicted person, provides information about crimes committed by others, in exchange for a reduction in sentence.
Definition of a crown witness
According to articles 226g-226k of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a crown witness is a person who provides incriminating statements about others, in return for:
- A sentence reduction of up to half
- In some cases, protection through a witness protection programme
Criteria for the arrangement
- Only for serious offences (minimum 4 years' imprisonment)
- The information must be crucial to the case
- The public prosecutor makes arrangements, approved by the College of Procurators-General
- A examining judge reviews the agreement
Relevant offences
The crown witness arrangement is often applied in regions such as Zoetermeer in cases such as:
- Murder and assassinations
- Large-scale drug trafficking
- Illegal arms trafficking
- Human trafficking
- Terrorist activities
Reliability of statements
Judges in the District Court of The Hague, under which Zoetermeer cases fall, view statements from crown witnesses with suspicion. Because the witness benefits from their statement, supporting evidence is necessary.
Safety measures
Crown witnesses are often targets. Therefore, in Zoetermeer and elsewhere, they can expect:
- A new identity
- Relocation, sometimes across the border
- Continuous protection
Notable cases
The crown witness arrangement is under pressure in the Netherlands due to incidents such as in the Marengo trial, where family members and lawyers of crown witness Nabil B. were attacked.
Frequently asked questions about crown witnesses
How is the crown witness arrangement applied?
A suspect can receive a sentence reduction (up to 50%) by testifying against others. The public prosecutor draws up an agreement, which is reviewed by the College of Procurators-General and an examining judge. This applies only to serious crimes with a minimum sentence of 4 years.
Who qualifies as a crown witness?
Only suspects or convicted persons in cases of organised crime, such as drug trafficking or murder, are eligible. Their statement must be of great value to the investigation.
How reliable are crown witnesses?
Due to their own interest in sentence reduction, their statements are strictly scrutinised. Judges require additional evidence, such as wiretaps or other material, to corroborate the testimony.
What if a crown witness does not tell the truth?
If they lie or conceal facts, the agreement can be terminated. The sentence reduction then lapses and the witness risks prosecution for false statements or perjury.
What protection does a crown witness in Zoetermeer receive?
In case of danger, a crown witness can receive a new identity, be relocated (possibly abroad) and be provided with round-the-clock protection via the Witness Protection Service.