WILLEMSTAD – The three police officers involved in the fatal Hanenberg shooting in 2021 will not have to serve immediate punishment after the Court of Appeal imposed fully suspended sentences.
Each officer received a suspended community service order of 180 hours and a suspended ban from holding public office. Because the penalties are suspended, the officers can keep their positions and do not have to perform the community service unless they violate the conditions of their sentence.
The court found the officers guilty of jointly committing manslaughter and two attempted manslaughter charges after they opened fire on a fleeing vehicle during a police pursuit.
The incident occurred while officers were attempting to stop suspects connected to an armed robbery. During the pursuit, the officers fired thirteen shots at the vehicle. Eight bullets hit the car, and 18-year-old Z. Nicasia was killed after being struck from behind.
The court ruled that the officers had the authority to use their service weapons, but that their actions exceeded what was necessary and proportional.
However, the judges also considered the lack of proper firearms training within the police force when determining the sentences.
According to the court, the shortcomings within the KPC contributed to the situation because officers were not adequately trained to maintain their shooting skills and knowledge about responsible firearm use.
The lack of training did not remove the officers’ personal responsibility, but it was considered an important factor in reducing the severity of the punishment.
The ruling highlights the importance of police training, supervision and clear procedures for the use of force, especially in situations where officers must make rapid decisions with potentially life-changing consequences.