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Prosecutors Seek Eight-Year Terms and 13-Year Ban in Aurora Borealis Abuse Appeal

The demand rose after charges were upgraded because one resident suffered severe injury with lasting trauma.

Overview

  • The Public Prosecution Service presented its request at the Court of Appeal in Leeuwarden, with the court set to announce the verdict date later today.
  • Paul W. (65) and his son‑in‑law Michel K. (38) were sentenced last year by the Groningen court to five years and four months for abusing ten residents.
  • Prosecutors say the abuse was systematic and that staff were pushed to take part, citing withholding food, tying residents to a treadmill, and gagging with a sock.
  • The advocate general characterized the farm as an unsafe place centered on punishment and humiliation, noting residents had the highest care needs and could not resist.
  • Paul W. delivered an apology in court, while the prosecutor maintained the defendants have not fully accepted responsibility.