The owners of a nursing home in Wedde have been sentenced to the maximum prison term for mistreating their residents, as reported by the Dagblad van het Noorden on Thursday. The court imposed a sentence of five years and four months, which aligns with the prosecution’s request made over a month ago.
During the verdict, the judge highlighted the deliberate nature of the abuse perpetrated by the owners. “The defendants played a central role,” the judge stated. “They collaborated to establish policies, provided instructions, and guided the staff.”
The judge provided several examples of the abuse, such as tying a resident to a treadmill that was switched on and placing another under a dripping faucet. Allegedly, the owners found these incidents entertaining. “This combination creates a sadistic impression,” the judge observed.
Beatings, bullying, and neglect: A culture of abuse at Aurora Borealis
The main defendants, Paul W. (63) and Michel K. (37), were the owners of the Aurora Borealis nursing home in Wedde. Journalist Alberto Stegeman’s undercover program “Undercover in Nederland” brought the mistreatment to light. Clients were subjected to abuse, bullying, and humiliation. The footage showed, among other things, an incident where a client was hit on the head with a laundry basket, causing him injuries.
These images prompted the police to raid the nursing home a year and a half ago. The facility was immediately shut down, and the residents were taken to safety. During previous hearings, the Inspectorate for Health Care and Youth revealed even more examples of the abuse that took place at the nursing home.
“Mirror, mirror”: Construction background blamed for offensive language
The prosecution demanded the maximum penalty for abuse due to the severe impact on the former residents, one of whom developed PTSD and is receiving specialized treatment. The Public Prosecution Service also sought compensation for the victims.
During earlier hearings, the defendants expressed remorse but denied intending to bully and humiliate the residents. Paul W. claimed that only the extreme incidents, which occurred when he was sleep-deprived, were broadcast.
Michel K. admitted to using inappropriate language, sometimes calling residents “lazy faggots.” He explained, “I have a big mouth. Absolutely. Unacceptable language. I’m a loudmouth. Residents are sometimes lazy. I come from construction, so I just say: you’re a lazy fag.”
The defendants argued that these harsh statements were meant to “mirror” the clients’ behavior, a term frequently used in court to describe mimicking the actions of a multi-disabled resident so they could see their own behavior.
Slammer time!
Until yesterday’s hearing, both defendants had remained free. However, the judge has now ordered their immediate imprisonment. The men were taken directly from the courtroom to prison by the police.
Both defendants have the right to appeal the verdict. However, even if they do, they will remain in prison pending the outcome of the appeal.
