In prison for 30 years, Belgian inmate wins OK for assisted suicide
A convicted murderer and rapist in Belgium who says he is a danger to society has won approval for an assisted suicide.
Frank Van Den Bleeken will be the first detainee in Belgium who won the right to euthanasia for psychological reasons, the Associated Press reports. At least 15 other inmates have also sought information about euthanasia, the Independent says, citing a statement by a palliative care doctor who spoke with De Standaard newspaper. There is no death penalty in the country.
Van Den Bleeken has been in prison for 30 years as a result of several rape convictions and a conviction for a rape and murder, Agence France-Presse says. Earlier this year, he told state broadcaster VRT that he is a danger to society. “What’s the point in sitting here until the end of time and rotting away?” he said. “I’d rather be euthanized.”
The board that assesses euthanasia requests granted Van Den Bleeken’s request Monday. On the same day, Belgium’s justice minister agreed to transfer Van Den Bleeken to a hospital for the procedure. Van Den Bleeken had made the same request three years ago, but the board said he had to seek psychological help first, according to the Independent.
Van Den Bleeken’s lawyer did not disclose when the assisted suicide would take place.
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