Justitiepaleis Brussel. — © MH Michiel Hendryckx. On 2025-04-28 12:07:00, a routine traffic stop in Vilvoorde revealed serious consequences for a Dutch driver caught using his phone while driving. This incident escalated into months of harassment and threats against a Belgian police officer, culminating in a significant court ruling. How did a simple traffic violation lead to such a severe outcome? Read on for the Fast Answer.
- Nederlander betrapt op bellen achter stuur
- Politie takelt voertuig na agressie-uitbarsting
- Man bedreigt inspecteur maandenlang telefonisch
- Slachtoffer en familie verblijven op schuiladres
- Nederlander veroordeeld tot 20 maanden gevangenisstraf
- Schadevergoeding van 3.500 euro opgelegd
What were the consequences of the Vilvoorde traffic stop involving a Dutch driver and Belgian police?
The traffic stop on March 27, 2023, in Vilvoorde involved a Dutch driver caught using his phone behind the wheel, who initially refused to identify himself. Authorities discovered he was banned from driving in the Netherlands. After the police ordered his car to be towed, the driver became aggressive and had to be restrained. Although he later apologized, claiming a temporary psychosis, the harassment continued. For months, the driver sent death threats and disturbing images to the officer, forcing the officer and his family into hiding. The court sentenced the man to 20 months’ imprisonment and ordered him to pay €3,500 in damages.
- Driver’s initial refusal to identify and prior driving ban
- Aggressive behaviour and restraint during the stop
- Ongoing threats and harassment post-incident
- Legal consequences: prison sentence and compensation
What can Belgian authorities do to prevent such incidents in the future? Strengthening cross-border cooperation and support for officers under threat is crucial. Citizens should remain vigilant and report any intimidation. This case serves as a reminder that even minor traffic violations can escalate, underscoring the need for respect and adherence to the law on Belgian roads.
