A 60-year-old resident of Bruges has appeared before the Bruges criminal court on charges of exhibitionism.
J.D. was repeatedly seen walking naked through the hallways of his apartment building. The public prosecutor recommended probationary measures to ensure he continues to address his alcohol problem.
On 31 July 2023, J.D. was spotted naked in the communal corridor of his Bruges apartment building. On 15 September 2023, he was seen naked at his window, allegedly pleasuring himself. Finally, on 19 February 2024, he knocked on his downstairs neighbour’s door while naked.
At the hearing on 19 September 2024, the public prosecutor suggested appointing a forensic psychiatrist, believing J.D.’s alcohol abuse might be causing psychological issues. J.D. has been involuntarily committed since May 2024. The defence agreed to the psychiatric evaluation but opposed any potential institutionalisation.
The forensic psychiatrist concluded that J.D. is indeed accountable for his actions but should receive treatment for his alcohol problem. Prosecutor Lode Vandaele then requested probationary conditions to ensure J.D. continues to address his alcohol abuse.
The defence did not dispute the facts, although J.D. claimed he could not remember the last two incidents. "But his neighbour would not have made it up," said his lawyer, Frederik Vanparys.
The lawyer also noted that his client is receiving support for both his alcohol addiction and from a sexologist. Consequently, he requested a suspension of the sentence with certain conditions.
“I want to apologise to my fellow residents,” J.D. said in his final statement. The judge will issue a ruling on 20 March.
