In Rotterdam, four radical members of the sovereign citizen group “Common Law Nederland Earth” appeared in court charged with terrorism offenses. They allegedly plotted to overthrow the Dutch government and democratic institutions, viewing the use of deadly violence as legitimate. Their plan included a violent confrontation with officials in Deventer, targeting the town’s mayor, Ron Köning. They also underwent training to improve self-defense skills.
The case follows a warning from the Dutch counter-terrorism unit, NCTV, which reported that some individuals in the Netherlands reject the state and the rule of law, believing in an “evil elite.” This group, labeled as “autonomous,” has been linked to violence, especially in confrontations with law enforcement.
The six men involved were arrested earlier this year, with two caught during a weapons handover and four others arrested in July. Additionally, police recently arrested a 66-year-old woman believed to be a leader of the group. The next court hearing is scheduled for December 9.
Daniel Thomas Rutter, 34, pleaded guilty to charges of injuring with intent to injure, obstructing police, and resisting police after an incident in Blenheim, New Zealand. Initially, Rutter had pleaded not guilty but changed his pleas in court. An assault charge against him was dropped earlier in August.
The charges stemmed from two separate incidents on May 8, 2023. In the first, Rutter was stopped by police while driving. When asked to cooperate, he responded aggressively and made comments reflecting sovereign citizen beliefs, leading to his arrest after resisting and being pepper-sprayed.
Later that day, at an emergency housing complex where Rutter lived, he attacked a fellow resident after hearing accusations that the man had stolen a motorbike. Rutter aggressively approached the victim and punched him multiple times, causing injuries, including a cut above the eye. He continued to torment the victim and physically assaulted him further before they were separated.
In court, Rutter’s lawyer requested a pre-sentence and restorative justice report, citing possible mental health issues. Rutter’s sentencing is scheduled for November 14.