13 years old and a suspect in a stabbing incident: what happens now?
image: Jack Lucas Smith via Unsplash
The Dutch town of Schiedam was shocked this week by a fatal stabbing involving a 13-year-old victim and suspect. Mariëlle Bruning, Professor of Children and the Law, spoke to Dutch ‘RTL Nieuws’ about procedures with underage suspects.
On Sunday 23 February 2025, a 13-year-old boy was seriously injured in a stabbing attack in Schiedam. He died of his injuries later that day. After the incident, police arrested a suspect of the same age. What happens next to such a young suspect? Usually, a suspect of that age is held in a police cell for a day or night for interrogation, Professor Bruning says. ‘After that, the child is taken to a youth custodial institution as soon as possible. The next question asked is: can the child be released pending trial as soon as possible, and return home?’
According to the professor, in the case of an underage suspect, releasing them pending trial is the preferable option. If a minor is sent home, juvenile probation and sometimes youth services become involved. Measures can be taken such as an ankle bracelet or ordering house arrest. Professor Bruning stresses that whether underage suspects end up in criminal circles depends on the suspect's home situation and personal circumstances. According to the professor, there is ‘one tiny advantage’ to young children getting involved in crime: ‘They're still somewhat easier to guide at that tender age.’
More information?
Read the full RTL article (in Dutch)
Watch the RTL Nieuws broadcast