Former Groningen Mayor Koen Schuiling Fined for Public Indecency
Ex-mayor convicted of indecent behaviour while driving on the A7 highway.
Former Groningen mayor Koen Schuiling has been fined €250 for indecent behaviour while driving on the A7 highway in March 2024. A truck driver reported that Schuiling was behind the wheel with his pants partially down, exposing himself and masturbating while driving next to the truck. The court found the truck driver's statement reliable and upheld the fine.
Schuiling denied the allegations, saying he was suffering from severe abdominal pain due to a medical condition. He claimed that he loosened his belt and pants to relieve pressure and was massaging his stomach, which was misunderstood. However, the judge ruled that the witness’s account was credible and that Schuiling’s explanation did not justify his actions.
Schuiling’s Defense Rejected by Court
Schuiling's lawyer argued that there was only one witness, but the judge disagreed. The court stated that Schuiling himself confirmed he was on the A7 at the time and that his route matched the witness’s account. The judge also dismissed Schuiling's claim of a medical emergency, noting that there was no strong medical evidence to support his defense.
Schuiling also gave an unusual reason for his driving route. He claimed he had a flat tire, which he had recently inflated and wanted to test before heading home. However, the court found no reason to accept this as a valid excuse.
More Complaints About Schuiling’s Behavior
This was not the first incident involving Schuiling. Another complaint was filed in October 2023 when he was seen at a gas station, allegedly walking with his pants open. Witnesses reported that he even briefly removed his pants. Schuiling denied this, again claiming that he was dealing with stomach pain.
Although the court did not use the October 2023 case as supporting evidence, it raised concerns about a pattern of behavior.
Political Fallout and Forced Resignation
Following these incidents, Schuiling faced pressure to resign. In early 2025, local police and the Public Prosecution Service advised him to step down due to concerns about his driving behaviour. This led to Interior Minister Judith Uitermark presenting Schuiling with an ultimatum: resign voluntarily or be suspended.
In September 2024, Schuiling announced his retirement, citing a lack of energy and the challenges of the job. However, he did not publicly acknowledge the allegations against him at the time.
Court Verdict: “This Behavior Is Not Acceptable”
During the hearing, the judge emphasised that everyone is equal before the law, regardless of position. “Whether you are a sewer worker or a mayor, this behavior is not acceptable in society,” the judge stated.
Schuiling now has 14 days to decide whether he will appeal the ruling. His lawyer says he is still considering his options.