1. THB CASES IN THE NETHERLANDS October 3d 2013
BEST PRACTICES
THB CASES
IN THE NETHERLANDS
October 3d 2013

2. PROGRAMMATIC APPROACH
THB is a topic of the highest priority for police and public prosecutor (pp)
Both police and pp are specialized on the topic
There is an MoU between police and pp about the number of THB investigations that needs to be done on a yearly basis
All information on THB cases need to be reported to the pp
THB is not just about prosecution, but also about solving the problem

3. Programmatic approach (1)
THB investigations are not only aimed at criminal prosecution of the suspects
The rights of the victims need to be taken into account (reimbursement of material and immaterial damages)
The victims also have a right to make a statement in court

4. Programmatic approach (2)
The environment which made THB possible needs to be dismantled (facilitators)
Other government or municipal bodies need to be involved in this process
Publicity is actively sought in order to highlight the problems of THB
Potential victims are approached and made aware of their rights

5. TIPS AND TRICKS
It is important to take pictures of the working and living environment of THB victims straightaway
Take statements from witnesses (neighbours, drivers, shopowners who deliver goods etc) on the same day
Ask permission from the victims to look through their phones for text messages, numbers etc
There should be a standarized list of questions for the victims

6. CONTACTS WITH THE VICTIM
Always be aware that the victim might not see the benefits of the criminal prosecution
Always be aware that the victim might change his/her statements because of pressure from others or fear
Document your meetings with the victims and be realistic in your approach
Meetings with victims should never be one of one