Investigation
Following anonymous information that the men were selling drugs to minors, the police initiated an investigation. In recent months, police observed multiple instances of the suspects possibly selling drugs to, among others, underage youths in Doorn and the surrounding area. Financial investigations indicated that money seemed to be earned from drug sales. On Tuesday, September 2, the police decided to arrest the trio. They include a minor boy, a 20-year-old man, and a 37-year-old man from Doorn. During searches of their homes, soft drugs and materials used in drug trafficking were found. Their phones have been seized for further investigation.
Crime Does Not Pay
The police are investigating the suspects income with the aim of confiscating any money earned from drug trafficking. Confiscating criminal money or goods is an important part of the fight against crime. The municipality of Utrechtse Heuvelrug can also assess whether a penalty payment needs to be imposed based on the information from the investigation.
Youth Involvement in Drug Crime
The police see that young people are increasingly being used for (drug) crime, known as the so-called youth involvement. Vulnerable youths are dazzled by money, nice clothes, expensive cars, and the status that drug trafficking brings. However, they do not consider the downside of this world. They do not realize they are engaging in illegal activities and could get caught. They do not understand that this affects not only them but also their surroundings, friends, and family. Once young people are involved in crime, there is often no way out: it is a choice between facing the police and the legal system and ending up in prison, or becoming a victim of violence, sometimes even deadly. Together with municipalities, the Public Prosecution Service, RIEC, and other safety partners, we work to prevent and reduce youth involvement in (drug) crime in Central Netherlands. In addition to the criminal proceedings, a program is being initiated for the minor boy and the 20-year-old man in this case, together with cooperation partners, to prevent them from returning to crime.
Watch for Signs & Report!
Are you worried about a young person? Engage in conversation and seek help from your municipality or neighborhood officer. Do you see that the young person suddenly has more money to spend or has, for example, drugs with them? Do you suspect that young people are involved in (drug) crime? Report this to the police via 0900 - 8844 or anonymously to Report Crime Anonymously via 0800 - 7000.