paroolAug 29, 2026, 08:21

Police raid home of author of leaked report on misconduct at Amsterdam municipality

Police have raided the homes of lead investigator Bernadette Verheggen on suspicion of leaking a controversial draft report regarding misconduct within the Amsterdam municipality. The original report, which criticized the city's handling of workplace complaints, was suppressed by the ombudsman following pressure from Mayor Femke Halsema before being released to the media.

Police recently conducted raids on properties linked to Bernadette Verheggen, the lead investigator behind a controversial report concerning misconduct within the Amsterdam municipality. Authorities reportedly seized electronic devices, including phones and laptops, on August 19 as part of an investigation into the unauthorized disclosure of a draft report. Verheggen is suspected of leaking the document, which detailed systemic failures in how the city's integrity bureau handled complaints of bullying, discrimination, and intimidation. She has reportedly described the police actions as disproportionate.

The investigation stems from an inquiry by the Amsterdam ombudsman, which was suppressed following strong criticism from Mayor Femke Halsema. While a revised and less critical version of the report was later released, the original draft reached the media, leading the ombudsman to file a formal complaint. Verheggen previously claimed that a culture of fear and complacency exists within the municipal organization, a sentiment she expressed after criticizing the mayor's behavior toward the investigation. The police and legal authorities have declined to provide further details regarding the ongoing case.

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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