The Dutch Olympic committee NOC*NSF is ramping up their precautions as Steven Van de Velde heads to the Olympics. It’s a situation that’s raising eyebrows and stirring controversy.
In a shocking turn of events back in 2016, Van de Velde confessed to three counts of rape against a child and was condemned to spend four years in a British prison.
The story begins in 2014 when Van de Velde, a Dutch athlete, traveled to the UK to meet a young girl he had befriended on Facebook.
Tragically, the girl from Milton Keynes was only 12 years old at the time. Despite her young age, Van de Velde engaged in sexual activities with her.
He was ultimately convicted of child rape two years later. Though sentenced to four years, he only served 12 months behind bars.
Fast forward to today, Van de Velde has qualified for this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, a decision that has unleashed a wave of criticism given his past crimes.
Amidst the outcry last month, the Dutch Olympic Committee (NOC*NSF) defended their decision, stating, “After his release, Van de Velde sought and received professional counselling. He demonstrated to those around him – privately and professionally – self-insight and reflection.”
The committee further explained that his return was in line with the Dutch Volleyball Federation’s ‘Guidelines Integrity Record’, which outlines conditions under which athletes can return to competition post-conviction.
However, the NOC*NSF is now taking extra steps, including having Van de Velde stay separately from the rest of the Dutch athletes.
The NOC*NSF elaborated to the NL Times, “NOC*NSF have come to these measures after discussions with the beach volleyballer and his teammates. Several other measures relate to, among other things, the supervision of beach volleyball players. In the interests of the people involved, no further announcements will be made about this.”
They hope these measures will help maintain peace during the Games, adding, “NOC*NSF regrets the impact of the unforeseen renewed attention for everyone who suffers from trauma due to sexual offenses and inappropriate behavior.”
With the Olympics just around the corner, starting next Friday, July 26 and continuing until Sunday, August 11, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds.
If you’ve been affected by any of the issues in this article, you can contact The National Sexual Assault Hotline on 800.656.HOPE (4673), available 24/7. Or you can chat online via online.rainn.org.