Footballer Quincy Promes denied release while appealing drug, stabbing convictions

Footballer Quincy Promes requested release from his pre-trial detention by the Amsterdam Court of Appeal on Thursday, citing his responsibility for his five children. The 33-year-old has been held for six months and sought to remain free while his appeal is considered. The court denied his request.

Promes, a former Oranje international, is accused of involvement in cocaine trafficking as well as the stabbing of his cousin. He received a combined prison sentence of 7.5 years, and the case is now being handled on appeal. The proceedings are still in the preliminary phase, with the third initial hearing held on Thursday.

“It’s no longer even about my football career. It’s purely financial, to help my children,” Promes said at the court on Thursday. “If I get the chance to be released, I will comply with the conditions.”

According to his lawyer, his financial circumstances are critical. Promes also noted that detention prevents him from training, adding that he is currently out of shape and would focus immediately on regaining fitness if freed.

Although Promes owns multiple properties, his lawyer said they do not all generate income. One house is occupied by his mother, while another is home to his ex-partner and their children. The tenant of a third property is allegedly not paying rent, the lawyer explained. “And then he has to provide for five minor children. By now, the situation has become quite urgent,” said lawyer Cem Polat.

The Court of Appeal characterized the case as involving serious criminal conduct and rejected the defense’s argument that the risk of flight no longer exists. It also ruled that Promes’s personal situation does not justify suspending his pretrial detention.

The Public Prosecution Service also argued against releasing Promes from pre-trial detention, calling such a move highly unusual. The advocate general noted that Promes focuses solely on his personal interests and does not address the accusations when questioned.

The Court of Appeal said that the case will not be dealt with on the merits any earlier than September next year.