Today, the Public Prosecution Service demanded 10 years imprisonment against a 43-year-old man from Schiedam. He is suspected of stabbing a 51-year-old man on January 25 this year. This occurred in front of a café on Hoogstraat in Schiedam. The victim died that night in the hospital.
While emergency services were still trying to save the victims life, a police investigation was initiated. The police searched for camera footage and distributed a description of the suspect. The suspect reported to the police that evening. He stated that he had gotten into a fight and stabbed someone.
Petting dog
Based on witness statements, it was established what happened that evening in front of the café. The victim was outside smoking and talking with two people. The suspect was also outside and had a dog with him. When the victim petted the dog, a witness heard the suspect say no, no, no. He did not want his dog to be touched. An argument ensued, but then it calmed down again.
Until some time later when things went completely wrong. The victim kicked the suspect in the groin. Someone else intervened, but the suspect struck the victim with one hand. Then the victim collapsed and bled from his chest. He later died that night in the hospital.
An autopsy showed that the victim was stabbed once with a knife. His right ventricle was hit, causing blood loss and oxygen deprivation to vital organs. This led to his death.
Family permanently affected
The public prosecutor during the hearing: “After something stupid like one kick in the groin from the suspect, the victim was taken from life by the suspect. Nobody expected this could happen. Kick or no kick: stabbing the victim was completely unnecessary. He was deprived of the most important thing he had – his own life. His family members are deeply shocked and permanently affected by his death. They lost their dear father and have to learn to live with loss and grief.”
Manslaughter is one of the most serious crimes. It is no coincidence that long prison sentences apply. The public prosecutor: “Because the suspect must be held fully responsible for his actions, a long prison sentence is the only appropriate response.”
