According to Municipal Director Linnéa Van Wagenen, there have been reports and testimonies that the perpetrator had previously behaved inappropriately, among other things, at a school.
We must find out if this should have been warning flags for us, she says.
Van Wagenen welcomes all information coming into the municipality. They will later be handed over to an external investigator.
We want to find warning flags that we have missed, she says.
Taking Measures
The municipality is now taking various measures. It's about reviewing work methods and routines in preschools, such as when preschool staff are alone with children and in what way. It can, for example, involve who is responsible for diaper changes, according to Van Wagenen.
The design of the premises is also being reviewed, for example, regarding visibility.
Do we have a habit of having open doors during diaper changes, do we have doors with glass or not? says Van Wagenen.
The municipality's staff will also undergo training, including how to detect sexual abuse of children.
Providing Crisis Support
The municipality has previously set up a crisis support group that residents can turn to.
We will keep it open as long as we see that there is a need, says Van Wagenen.
During a search of the suspected man's home, a large number of images were found on his computer showing sexual abuse of children, taken between 2018-2024.
Since the man is deceased, no charges will be brought.
