Man accused of filming boys at Zeeland football clubs and sexually abusing child

A 39-year-old man from Vlissingen is suspected of secretly filming underage boys for years in the locker rooms of several football clubs in Zeeland. The alleged incidents took place between January 1, 2010, and April 16, 2025, and involve the clubs JVOZ, VV Kloetinge, and SV Walcheren, according to the Public Prosecution Service.

The man is also accused of sexually abusing an underage boy. The victim attended the primary school where the suspect worked as a teacher. The abuse continued when the boy went to middle school, with the incidents then occurring at the suspect’s home. Police have stated that the boy is the only victim of the sexual abuse.

The suspect, who worked as a coach and scout, is also said to have filmed during official events organized by the Dutch Football Association, the KNVB, for players under the age of 12. These recordings involved training sessions with participants from football clubs in Zeeland.

According to investigators, the videos depict boys aged 10 to 14 while changing or showering. The inquiry concluded that the suspect kept the material to himself and did not distribute it, either privately or via the internet.

The suspect made his first court appearance in Middelburg on Wednesday, where it was ruled that he will stay in detention. The case is set to continue with another hearing on December 3, which will also serve as a preparatory hearing. The full trial is expected to begin in the spring, at which point the court will examine the case in depth.