Convicted child rapist, Steven van de Velde, receives warm welcome at volleyball tournament

Just days after facing public condemnation at the Olympics, convicted child rapist Steven van de Velde received a warm welcome at the European Beach Volleyball championships in the Netherlands. The 30-year-old Dutchman, who served only 12 months of a four-year sentence for raping a 12-year-old girl, was seen posing for photos with young girls and signing autographs.

The stark contrast between the boos and jeers he faced in Paris and the adulation he received in the Hague highlights a disturbing disconnect. While some fans cheered and even bowed down to him, his presence at the tournament sparked outrage among victims' advocates and concerned citizens.

Van de Velde's inclusion in the Dutch Olympic squad had already ignited controversy, with many calling for his ban. However, organizers claimed they were powerless to prevent his participation.

Despite the backlash, van de Velde appears to be rebuilding his life in the Netherlands. He is now married with a young son and continues to pursue his volleyball career, seemingly unfazed by the gravity of his past crimes.