A seaside volleyball participant who was jailed for raping a 12-year-old British woman is ready to symbolize the Netherlands on the Paris Olympics.
It was Steven van de Velde, now 29 years previous He was sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 After he confessed to a few fees of raping a baby in August 2014.
Van de Velde, who met his sufferer on Fb, travelled from Amsterdam to the UK and raped the woman at an tackle in Milton Keynes.
He was allowed to serve his sentence within the Netherlands, however was launched after solely 12 months.
The Dutch Olympic Committee mentioned that Van de Velde then resumed his volleyball profession and has participated in worldwide tournaments since 2018 “after an intensive course below skilled supervision.”
He certified for the Olympics within the nationwide doubles with associate Matthew Emmers.
The Dutch Olympic Committee informed BBC Sport: “Following his launch, Van de Velde sought and acquired skilled recommendation. He demonstrated to these round him – each personally and professionally – self-insight and reflection.”
The Nationwide Olympic Committee mentioned Van de Velde’s return to the game complies with pointers set by the Dutch Volleyball Federation within the organisation’s “Report of Integrity Tips”, which units out the situations below which athletes should resume competitors after a conviction.
It says he met “all Olympic qualification standards.”
In earlier interviews with Dutch media, Van de Velde mentioned: “I am unable to undo it, so I’ve to bear the results. It was the largest mistake of my life.”
In a press release offered by the Nationwide Olympic Committee, Van de Velde mentioned: “In 2016 and past, many Dutch media retailers had been additionally within the story. I understand that within the run-up to the largest sporting occasion on this planet, this may entice the general public.” Worldwide media consideration.”
The Worldwide Olympic Committee (IOC), the Dutch Volleyball Affiliation and the FIVB have been contacted for remark.
