Men from Apeldoorn imprisoned for causing explosion

The 35-year-old and 38-year-old men are cousins. On December 4, 2022, within a few hours, they went several times to the victims house. They broke a window there. Then, on three different occasions, they threw an explosive or fireworks at the house. The last explosive, a Cobra 8, detonated inside the house. This caused significant damage to the house and belongings inside. A Cobra 6, which did not explode, was also found at the house. At the time of the explosion, the victim was not inside the house but was at his neighbors property. It remains unknown why the cousins tried to intimidate the victim in this way. 

The court rules that there was proven life-threatening danger to persons and risk of serious bodily injury. This is partly based on camera footage. According to the court, there was close and deliberate cooperation between the cousins. Both men threw objects at the victims house during the first incident. At the second and third times, the 35-year-old threw objects while the 38-year-old drove a car and ensured a quick getaway. This shows that the cousins clearly knew what they intended. 

The explosion caused significant damage to the victims house and belongings. The explosion was powerful. Causing an explosion is a very serious crime. Such an attack is threatening and frightening for both the residents and neighbors. It causes feelings of fear and insecurity. 

The court sentenced both men to 28 months in prison. It took into account that the arson and attempted arson took place in 2022. The reasonable time limit within which a case must be handled was therefore exceeded. 

Finally, the men must pay nearly 8,300 euros in damages to the victim.

A 47-year-old man from Apeldoorn was also suspected of involvement in the arson and attempted arson. The court acquitted this man due to lack of evidence.