Official corruption involves bribing a public official or a public official accepting bribes. This undermines trust in the government and is severely punished in the Netherlands, including in the Leiden region.
Types of Official Corruption
Bribery of Public Officials (Article 177 Sr)
Giving gifts, promises or services to a public official to induce a specific action or omission. The penalty can amount to 4-6 years' imprisonment.
Bribery by Public Officials (Article 363 Sr)
A public official receiving gifts, promises or services in exchange for an official act. The maximum penalty is 4-6 years.
Who Falls Under 'Public Official'?
The term 'public official' encompasses a broad group, including:
- Municipal civil servants
- Police officers
- Judges and public prosecutors
- Politicians such as ministers and members of parliament
- Officials at the European level
- Foreign government officials
Practical Examples
- An entrepreneur pays an official for a quick permit
- A motorist offers an officer money to avoid a fine
- A company gives a donation to a politician for favorable legislation
International Corruption
In the Netherlands, bribing foreign public officials is also punishable. This is crucial for companies in Leiden operating worldwide that must comply with anti-corruption laws.
Penalties
- Bribery: 4 years (for standard official act) to 6 years (for breach of official duty)
- For public officials: 4-6 years imprisonment and possibly dismissal
- Judges: stricter penalties
Detection and Prosecution in Leiden
In the Leiden region, corruption cases are investigated by agencies such as the National Police Internal Investigations Department (Rijksrecherche) and the Public Prosecution Service. Reports often come from whistleblowers or through financial controls.
Contact and Assistance in Leiden
For legal questions about official corruption, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location, handles cases in this region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Official Corruption
What is considered official corruption?
Official corruption includes giving or receiving money, gifts or benefits in exchange for an official act. This applies to a broad group of public officials and can lead to a prison sentence of 4 to 6 years.
Is bribery of foreign public officials punishable?
Yes, in the Netherlands, bribing foreign public officials is also a criminal offense, which is important for companies in Leiden with international activities.
What are the consequences of official corruption?
The penalties range from 4 to 6 years' imprisonment, depending on the nature of the offense. Public officials also risk dismissal and reputational damage.
How is corruption detected?
The Rijksrecherche and the Public Prosecution Service investigate corruption cases, often following tips from whistleblowers or through audits and controls.
What to do in case of suspicion of corruption in Leiden?
You can report it to the Rijksrecherche or the Public Prosecution Service. Anonymous tips are possible via the Government Integrity Reporting Centre. Legal advice is recommended, for example via the Juridisch Loket Leiden.