The Hague, Netherlands – The Public Prosecution Service (OM) has expanded the charges against Frits van Eerd, the former CEO of the supermarket chain Jumbo, to include money laundering, according to sources close to the investigation who spoke to the Financieele Dagblad. Van Eerd, who is already accused of corruption and forgery, is set to face these new allegations in a preliminary hearing scheduled for later this month at the Assen court.
The OM’s decision to add money laundering to the list of charges marks a significant escalation in the case against Van Eerd. The hearing will be the first time these new accusations are formally presented in court. Van Eerd’s lawyer, Robert Jonk, remained cautious in his response, declining to either confirm or deny the new suspicions.
Money laundering, if proven, could result in a maximum sentence of eight years in prison. This charge is added to the existing counts of corruption (non-official bribery) and forgery, which were announced by the OM in April. At that time, the OM indicated that it was still investigating the possibility of money laundering charges against Van Eerd.
The investigation into Van Eerd began in earnest in September 2022 when authorities conducted a series of raids. Searches were carried out at his home in Heeswijk-Dinther, Noord-Brabant, as well as at Jumbo premises. During these operations, authorities discovered significant amounts of cash: 446,072.60 euros to be precise. The cash was found in various locations, including a safe in Van Eerd’s bedroom, a bag in his car, and another safe in a workshop on Jumbo property.
According to the Financieele Dagblad, the money laundering charge arises from the substantial cash discovered during the raids. Van Eerd’s lawyer, Jonk, has previously argued that the money had a legal origin, explaining that it came from individuals who purchased motorcycles and cars from his client and paid in cash. However, the OM appears to believe that the cash is linked to illegal activities, hence the new charge.
The corruption charge against Van Eerd involves allegations that he arranged motocross sponsorship contracts for his co-suspect, Theo E., in exchange for goods delivered at little to no cost. This arrangement is said to be a form of non-official bribery. Van Eerd stepped down as CEO of Jumbo in the wake of the investigation but has denied all allegations against him.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Dutch business community, as Jumbo is one of the largest supermarket chains in the country. The company, known for its commitment to quality and customer service, has faced scrutiny as details of the investigation have emerged.
The preliminary hearing later this month will be a critical moment in the case. It will provide the first formal opportunity for the OM to present its evidence against Van Eerd and for his defense team to respond. The outcome of the hearing could set the stage for a full trial, where the former Jumbo boss will face these serious charges.
As the investigation continues, the public’s interest in the case remains high. The charges against Van Eerd, particularly the addition of money laundering, underscore the complexity and severity of the allegations. The legal process will now unfold, with the ultimate goal of determining the truth and ensuring justice is served.
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