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The selection of convicted child rapist Steven van de Velde for the Dutch volleyball team has ignited a massive controversy ahead of the Paris Olympics. Van de Velde, 29, was convicted in 2014 for raping a 12-year-old British girl when he was 19. Despite his past, he has been chosen to compete, causing widespread uproar.
Van de Velde's first match in beach volleyball is scheduled for Sunday in the French capital. His inclusion has prompted the Dutch national committee to implement stringent security measures, including barring him from staying in the Olympic village and prohibiting media interviews.
Van de Velde has managed to rebuild his life post-conviction, marrying fellow volleyball professional Kim Behrens from Germany. Behrens, a police officer and athlete, frequently shares their family life on social media, which includes their young son. The couple married in 2022 and welcomed their son shortly after.
Van de Velde with wife Kim Behrens
Van de Velde’s case dates back to 2014 when he began communicating with the victim via social media. They eventually met in Milton Keynes, where he raped her. He was extradited to the UK and pleaded guilty to three counts of rape. Despite a four-year sentence, van de Velde served only one year due to a treaty allowing his transfer to Dutch custody, where his charges were downgraded.
The Dutch Volleyball Association has faced criticism for allowing van de Velde to continue his career. His participation in the Olympics has brought his past back into the spotlight, overshadowing the team's preparations and causing a significant backlash.
Netizens and critics alike have expressed their outrage, with many questioning the decision to include him in the team. The case has also drawn attention to broader issues of athlete conduct and the responsibilities of sporting bodies in dealing with past criminal convictions.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk
