Court to decide on compulsory psychiatric treatment for son after fatal stabbing of father in Rijswijk
A 40-year-old man who killed his father in Rijswijk may avoid criminal charges due to severe mental illness. The Public Prosecution Service seeks a tbs order with compulsory treatment to protect society, highlighting gaps in mental health care and legal accountability.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect Age | 40 years old |
| Location | Rijswijk, Zuid-Holland |
| Date of Incident | November 18, 2024 |
| Victim | Suspect’s father, who provided shelter and financial support |
| Mental Health Status | Diagnosed with psychosis; deemed unaccountable for actions |
| Legal Demand | Dismissal of charges; tbs order with compulsory treatment requested |
| Assessment Center | Pieter Baan Centre |
| Court Verdict Due | In two weeks |
The Public Prosecution Service is responsible for prosecuting criminal offenses in the Netherlands and determining whether suspects can be held accountable for their actions. In cases involving severe mental illness, it may request a tbs order to ensure public safety while providing psychiatric treatment.
Openrijk is free and ad-free
Do you value our work? Help us stay online with a small contribution.
external link to whydonate.comRead the full translated article below
Tbs compulsory treatment demanded for son who stabbed father to death
The 40-year-old man who stabbed his father to death in Rijswijk on November 18, 2024, is deemed fully unaccountable for his actions by the Public Prosecution Service. On Friday, the public prosecutor demanded the dismissal of all criminal charges and requested that the court impose a tbs (terbeschikkingstelling) order with compulsory treatment.
The suspect had a history of mental health issues. Since July, he had been living with his father, who provided him with shelter, financial support, and tried to convince him to accept professional help.
On Monday, November 18, 2024, the suspect stabbed his father multiple times with a knife, inflicting wounds to the head, face, and chest. He later stated that upon waking that morning, he had heard voices instructing him to do so.
Psychosis
The suspect was examined at the Pieter Baan Centre. Experts concluded that he was experiencing a psychosis both before and during the offence, though the cause of the psychosis remains unclear. The suspect cooperated only minimally, and it took a long time—even with medication—before he became even remotely psychologically stable.
The Public Prosecution Service concurs with the experts' findings and believes the suspect cannot be held criminally liable for the killing, as he had no control over his actions at the time. Therefore, he should be acquitted of all charges and not receive a criminal sentence. However, a measure is necessary to protect society. The public prosecutor requested that the court impose a tbs order with compulsory treatment. The court will deliver its verdict in two weeks.