Barendrecht Man Jailed for 18 Years for Abusing 31 Children

A 46-year-old man from Barendrecht, Zuid-Holland, has been sentenced to 18 years in prison followed by compulsory psychiatric treatment for a series of sex attacks on children. Mels van B. Was found guilty of abusing 31 children, primarily girls aged 10 to 12. DutchNews.nl reported on the sentencing on March 8, 2026.

Details of the Abuse

Eighteen of the victims experienced physical attacks, while the remaining 13 were filmed without their knowledge while using the bathroom or shower. DutchNews.nl. The abuse largely occurred on a campsite in Hoeven, between January 2023 and September 2024, where Van B. Had a seasonal caravan. Some attacks also took place at his home.

How the Abuse Was Discovered

The case came to light when a 10-year-old victim woke up and informed her parents about the abuse. DutchNews.nl. Many of the victims were friends of Van B.’s own children, and he allegedly drugged them with high doses of sleeping pills during sleepovers before the abuse occurred.

Further Investigation and Confession

During the police investigation, it was revealed that Van B. Had also abused his own daughter when she was very young. He described the abuse in court as a compulsion. DutchNews.nl. Prior to the sentencing, in December 2024, the suspect expressed “deep regret” for his actions during the first hearing of the case, according to NL Times. At that time, authorities estimated around 30 victims, a number that has since increased to 31.

Court’s Reasoning for the Sentence

Judges stated that the lengthy sentence and compulsory psychiatric treatment were “essential to protect society.” DutchNews.nl.