Convicted Child Rapist to Compete in Paris Olympics

Dutch beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who served time for raping a 12-year-old, has qualified for the 2024 Games.

Van de Velde was sentenced to four years in prison in 2016 but served only 12 months.
He has been supported by the Dutch Volleyball Federation and the Dutch Olympic Committee.
Van de Velde and his partner Matthew Immers are ranked 11th in the world.
The decision has sparked ethical debates and criticism from child protection organizations.
Van de Velde claims to have undergone professional counseling and rehabilitation.