By Razeen Gutta
Convicted child rapist Steven van de Velde has been selected to represent the Netherlands at the Paris Olympics, but the volleyball player will not be allowed to speak to the media.
Following outrage from advocacy groups and across social media at his inclusion, the Dutch Olympic Committee (NOC) made the decision to ban the player from speaking to the press.
After admitting to three counts of rape against a 12-year-old girl, Van de Velde served just a year in jail.
The 29-year-old was initially sentenced to four years in jail by a British court in 2016 after his crimes in 2014 when he was aged 19. However, his transfer to the Netherlands saw his sentence adjusted.
He returned to playing volleyball in 2017 and last month found himself named in the Olympics squad travelling to Paris.
Van de Velde will not stay at the Olympic village alongside his teammates. Instead, alternative accommodation will be booked for him.
IOC spokesperson Mark Adams told the media on Saturday that the NOC were the sole makers of the decision for the player to take part in the Games.
“They have put out a statement, they’ve made it very clear there’s a lot of safeguarding going on – special extra safeguarding,” Adams said.
Announcing his inclusion, the NOC said that Van de Velde was ready to return.
“After his release, Van de Velde sought and received professional counselling. He demonstrated to those around him – privately and professionally – self-insight and reflection.”
Pictured above: Steven van de Velde.
Source: @8bitproletariat
