Insurance fraud in Zoetermeer is covered under Articles 326 and 359 of the Dutch Criminal Code: fraud and forgery in documents. The maximum penalty is four years' imprisonment and a fine of €90,000. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) in The Hague, responsible for Zoetermeer, applies a guideline of 90% settlement (transactie) in minor cases but proceeds to trial in cases of systematic fraud in the region. Evidence includes witness statements, forensic investigations, and data exchange via the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD). Local insurers report cases through the National Insurance Fraud Reporting Centre, with increasing incidents in Zoetermeer residential areas.
Victims of fraudulent claims in Zoetermeer are considered injured parties with the right to speak in court at the District Court of The Hague. The Supreme Court of The Hague recently confirmed that simulating injury is a serious offense, relevant to local traffic accidents. The civil law principle of ne bis in idem does not apply; parallel civil and criminal proceedings are possible before the Zoetermeer subdistrict court. Fines and compensation for damages are governed by WM3 regulations.
Prevention efforts include education by the Municipality of Zoetermeer and AI detection by regional insurers. Annually, approximately 500 reports are made in South Holland, with €15 million in damages in the Zoetermeer area. Suspects have the right to legal representation and to request evidence. International fraud may involve extradition treaties, such as in cross-border claims originating from Zoetermeer. The Zoetermeer Police collaborate with the FIOD for search warrants. This regime effectively deters abuse in the growing city.