Conditional Release for Residents of Zoetermeer

Conditional Release in Zoetermeer

Conditional release (VI) allows detainees from Zoetermeer to be released early after serving two-thirds of their sentence, subject to strict conditions. This supports reintegration into the local community, but breaching conditions results in return to detention during the probationary period. For Zoetermeer residents, VI is essential to prevent recidivism and return to work and housing in the region.

Why Conditional Release for Zoetermeer Residents?

Dutch criminal law emphasizes both punishment and resocialization, which is particularly relevant for Zoetermeer residents. Through conditional release, well-behaved detainees with a plan for employment or housing arranged via the Municipality of Zoetermeer can be released early. This eases pressure on detention facilities and facilitates integration in Zoetermeer. Without VI, serving the full sentence complicates reintegration. Read our article on Imprisonment for background information.

Legal Basis for VI

The rules for conditional release are set out in the Penitentiary Principles Act (Pbw) (Section 2.4, Articles 2:26-2:35) and Article 15 of the Dutch Criminal Code (Sr). The Act to Prevent Serious Recidivism 2017 tightened these rules for sexual and violent offenses.

Key principles:

• VI is a privilege, not a right; it depends on advice.
• Approval from the Public Prosecution Service (OM) is required.
• The sentence enforcement judge of the District Court of Zoetermeer decides on revocation.

Conditions for VI in Zoetermeer

Not every Zoetermeer resident qualifies for conditional release. Essential requirements:

1. Sentence length: At least two months, with at least one month remaining after VI.
2. Two-thirds rule: After two-thirds (for sentences >6 months); shorter sentences have adjustments.
3. Behavior in detention: Good conduct, no new offenses, participation in programs.
4. Reintegration: Housing and job arranged via Municipality of Zoetermeer or debt assistance.
5. Exceptions: No VI for life sentences, TBS, or prohibitions (serious offenses).

Comparison of VI vs. full sentence:

VI Application Procedure

For conditional release in Zoetermeer:

1. Preparation: Reintegration plan with probation service and Municipality of Zoetermeer.
2. ACVI advice: The Advisory College for Conditional Release reviews the file and conducts an interview.
3. OM approval: Within 10 days.
4. Ministerial decision: Justis approves; probation period = remainder +1 year.

Takes 8-12 weeks; right to be heard by ACVI.

Rights and Obligations under VI

Rights

• Legal assistance via The Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer or a lawyer.
• Access to file.
• Appeal to the District Court of Zoetermeer against rejection.

Obligations

Special conditions during probation period:

• Reporting to probation service.
• Contact bans.
• Therapy or GPS monitoring.
• No offenses; otherwise revocation by District Court of Zoetermeer.

Breach: return for remainder + additional time.

Practical Examples from Zoetermeer

Example 1: Resident A from Zoetermeer (3-year theft sentence) granted VI after 2 years: good behavior, job via municipality, positive ACVI/OM: released with reporting requirement.

Example 2: Resident B (2-year assault sentence) breaches contact ban; District Court of Zoetermeer revokes VI: 8+3 months detention.

Frequently Asked Questions