Groningen daycare warns parents of possible sexual abuse by visitor
A daycare in the Vinkhuizen district of Groningen has informed parents about possible sexual abuse of a child, saying the suspected perpetrator is not a staff member but a visitor to the building, RTV Noord reports.
The case involves a daycare center located on Goudlaan in a multi-use complex that also houses a community center. Multiple sources told local media the possible abuse may have taken place over a longer period in shared areas that children pass through on the way to the toilet.
In an email to parents this past weekend, the daycare’s management said it was “enormously shocked” by the case and has been in close contact with the GGD Groningen health service and police.
The center also announced measures to increase safety, including ensuring children are always accompanied by staff in shared spaces, on the playground, and in group rooms.
Police confirmed they received a report of the possible abuse in early May. “This report has been carefully investigated. Because there are too few leads to carry out an investigation, it has been decided in consultation with the Public Prosecution Service not to investigate the report further. Because no criminal investigation is underway and because we do not want to harm the privacy of those involved, we will not share further information,” a police spokesperson said.
According to RTV Noord's sources, the daycare leadership had planned to inform parents earlier but delayed after consultations with the municipality of Groningen and the GGD.
“The experience shows that in sensitive cases like this, good and careful preparation is of great importance,” a municipal spokesperson said. “In recent days that preparation has taken place, in close consultation with experts from the police, GGD and the municipality. The interests of the children and the parents always come first. The parent council was informed by the management last week and Monday evening there will be a meeting to inform parents and answer any questions. In sensitive cases like this, restraint is appropriate, which is why the municipality will not comment further.”
The daycare invited parents to attend that meeting. “We understand that our email raises questions. It is a shocking message. That is why on Monday evening you can come and ask your questions at our location. Someone from the GGD will also be present,” the management wrote.
