(NewsNation) — Beach volleyball player Steven van de Velde, who was charged and convicted of rape against a child, is set to represent the Netherlands at next month’s Olympics, according to the BBC.
Van de Velde, 29, admitted to raping a 12-year-old girl from the United Kingdom in 2014. He was sentenced in 2016 to four years in prison but was released after one year.
After his release, he resumed his career and has since qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The Dutch Olympic Committee has not prevented Van de Velde from participating in July’s Olympics, the BBC reported.
“After his release, Van de Velde sought and received professional counselling. He demonstrated to those around him — privately and professionally — self-insight and reflection,” the committee told BBC Sport.
It also told BBC Sport that Van de Velde has met “all qualification criteria for the Olympic Games.” He will compete with his partner, Matthew Immers.
The 29-year-old has previously spoken about his crime to Dutch media, according to the British outlet.
“I can’t reverse it so will have to bear the consequences. It has been the biggest mistake of my life,” he said.
Van de Velde issued a statement to BBC Sport through the Dutch Olympic Committee.
“In 2016 and afterwards, several Dutch media also paid attention to the story. I understand that in the run-up to the biggest sporting event in the world, this can attract the attention of international media,” he said.