Minors tried for robberies and kidnapping

Sheldon V. (18) and Stefan T. (17) appeared before the Amsterdam court Monday for five armed robberies and one kidnapping in Amsterdam and Nieuw-Vennep between April 4 and May 29, last year. The trial was not conducted behind closed doors as is customary in cases with minors involved, to facilitate a large group of victims to share the impact the crimes had on their lives.

The boys' undertakings came to an abrupt halt when they held a man hostage for an hour as they were fleeing after robbing a cafeteria. Police ended the hostage situation, shooting Sheldon in his back. Sheldon V. who is now paralyzed, is not imprisoned, because he's in a wheelchair. Stefan T., however, is locked up. Both boys expressed remorse over holding somebody hostage. The man who was held hostage demanded 6,000 euros compensation, but also told the boys he forgave them in the name of Jesus Christ and shook their hands in court. The Prosecution will present their arguments on Tuesday, and Wednesday the defense will make their case.