Arnhem swim instructor accused of sexually abusing six kids

A 21-year-old swim instructor from Arnhem is suspected of sexually abusing at least six young children between January and May this year. The victims are between the ages of 5 and 8 years old. The suspect is in custody and will appear in court for a proforma hearing on Thursday, AD reports.

According to the newspaper, 21-year-old Matthew A. gave swimming lessons at swimming pool De Grote Koppel in Arnhem Zuid, where he had an internship with swim club Neptunus. He lived in a supervised housing project in Arnhem. He is suspected of touching young boys' genitals while he was alone with them.

Neptunus board member Norbert Idserda confirmed to AD that A. is in custody on suspicion of sex crimes. The club immediately informed all members and parents "Everyone in the association is shocked, the parents of the children who are taught by us and the members." Idserda can't say anything more, because the police investigation is still ongoing. "We at Neptunus also receive very little information about the case."​ He would not say whether the suspect had a certificate of good behavior, according to the newspaper.

Dutch swimming association KNZB is aware of this case, but could not give AD a substantive comment. The association advises swim clubs to always ask instructors for a certificate of good behavior. "If people follow a course with us for swimming instructor or trainer, we ask for a certificate of good behavior. Our members, the swim clubs, are aware of this, but are not obliged to adopt that advice", a spokesperson said.