DEN BOSCH - A policeman from Veghel has been fined 1,500 euros by the court for shooting a burglar in Heeswijk-Dinther. The public prosecutor initially decided not to prosecute the policeman. The burglar appealed that decision - and successfully.
The 44-year-old officer caught the burglar in April 2012. The man twice ignored the policeman's order to remain standing, even when the officer drew his service weapon. When the burglar tried to climb over a fence, the officer shot him in the thigh.
The court ruled Tuesday that the officer exceeded his authority, shooting at a fleeing burglar. By doing draw his weapon, he was guilty of aggravated assault with premeditation, the court ruled.
