The police have delivered 120 people to the Public Prosecution Service (OM) on suspicion of crimes related to New Years. This is a decrease compared to last year, when 156 suspects were delivered on January 1, 2024.
In 68 cases, it involved violence against individuals, of which 36 were against emergency responders. Additionally, there were 18 incidents of property violence. In 34 cases, other offenses occurred, such as firework-related incidents.
Violence Against Emergency Responders
Attorney General Sue Preenen: ‘The number of suspects related to violence against emergency responders is lower than last year, yet it remains unacceptably high. Emergency responders like police, fire brigade, and ambulance personnel are essential for our safety and need to work without disturbance. Therefore, we prioritize the detection and prosecution of individuals using violence against them.
Appropriate Disposition
The OM can settle a case through fines or community service but may also bring a suspect before a judge. This always depends on the specific circumstances of the case. For violence against emergency responders, suspects are generally brought to court with a higher basis for sentencing. Ultimately, the judge decides the penalty based on the prosecutors request.
Seized Illegal Fireworks
In 2024, police and the Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) seized 107,281 kilograms of illegal fireworks, an increase from 78,895 kilograms the previous year. All figures can be found in the OMs firework barometer.