Dutch Penal System and Its Prisons: An Introductory Note (From Studies on the Dutch Prison System, P 3-10, 1987, M J M Brand-Koolen, ed. -- See NCJ 110443)

• NCJ Number: 110444
• Author(s): M Brand-Koolen
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 8 pages
• Sale Source: Kugler Publications
• Language: English
• Country: Netherlands

Annotation

This chapter provides a summary description of the Dutch criminal justice system in general and the prison system in particular.

Abstract

In the Netherlands, most misdemeanors never reach the courts, as the police or the public prosecutor generally settle such cases out of court. Most felonies are handled by the public prosecutor, who, as an agent of the state, determines what cases will be brought to court. District courts, of which there are 19 in the Netherlands, adjudicate most crimes, with possibility for appeal to higher courts. In approximately 15 percent of the cases that reach the courts, some form of unconditional imprisonment is ordered. Detention, imprisonment, and TBR (secure treatment for mentally disordered offenders found not guilty by reason of insanity) are the principal forms of confinement in the Netherlands. Currently, there is an average of 30-35 inmates per 100,000 population, a low incarceration rate compared with other European countries. All prison facilities are operated by the central government. Prisons vary by security regimes. Due to budgetary cuts, inmates in most institutions now work only half days and spend the other half day participating in educational and recreational programs. Inmate visits are permitted once a week for 1 or 2 hours. Telephone and mail privileges are standard. Every institution has a board of visitors which considers inmate grievances. 8 references.