Reporter Saskia Belleman is present at the case. Follow her updates via her Tweets at the bottom of this post.
Holleeder’s lawyers have requested an acquittal on all counts, because in their view the evidence is lacking. The lion’s share of this consists of statements from witnesses, including Holleeder’s sisters Astrid and Sonja. Victims in the case are Cor van Hout and Robert ter Haak (2003), Willem Endstra (2004), Kees Houtman (2005), John Mieremet (2005) and Thomas van der Bijl (2006).
On Friday, Holleeder’s lawyers will also speak once more, at the end of their extensive defence. Earlier this month, Holleeder announced that he wants to make the most of his opportunity to have the last word.
It is not yet clear whether the process will actually be completed. The Amsterdam court, which is in charge of the trial, was unable to hear a handful of witnesses, for various reasons. The verdict is scheduled for June 24. If an opportunity arises before that date to hear these witnesses, the court may do so.
