Child molester represents Netherlands at Olympics

By Razeen Gutta

Convicted child abuser Steven van de Velde has been selected to represent the Netherlands at the Paris Olympics, but the volleyball player will not be allowed to speak to the media.

Following outrage from interest groups and on social media over his inclusion, the Dutch Olympic Committee (NOC) decided to ban the player from speaking to the press.

After Van de Velde admitted three counts of rape of a twelve-year-old girl, he only served one year in prison.

The 29-year-old was initially sentenced to four years in prison by a British court in 2016 after committing crimes in 2014 at the age of 19. However, after his transfer to the Netherlands, his sentence was adjusted.

He returned to playing volleyball in 2017 and was named to the Olympic squad for the trip to Paris last month.

Van de Velde will not stay overnight in the Olympic Village with his teammates. Instead, alternative accommodation will be booked for him.

IOC spokesman Mark Adams told the media on Saturday that the decision on the player’s participation in the Games rests solely with the NOC.

“They made a statement and made it very clear that there are a lot of safeguards – special, additional safeguards,” Adams said.

When announcing his admission, the NOC stated that Van de Velde was ready to return.

“After his release, Van de Velde sought and received professional counseling. He demonstrated self-awareness and self-reflection to those around him – both privately and professionally.”

Pictured above: Steven van de Velde.

Source: @8bitproletariat