This coming Friday, June 19, 2026, the Court of Justice will hear the criminal case brought by the Public Prosecutor’s Office against Israel Jesus Paesch (40). He stands accused of shooting and killing his cousin, Rene Paesch, on August 23, 2025.
It is understood that the entire Friday has been reserved for the hearing of this case.
On March 6, 2026, Israel appeared in court for a pro forma hearing. The victim’s sister was present in the courtroom. The charges presented by the Prosecutor against Paesch are that on August 23, 2025, Israel Paesch shot and killed Rene Paesch. Additionally, Israel Paesch is charged with possession of a firearm and possession of cocaine.
Official report and interrogation of two witnesses completed
Attorney mr. Arends Marchena is representing Paesch. The Judge stated that a pro forma hearing took place on December 4, 2025, where it was agreed that the official police report (proces-verbaal) should be ready, and it is now completed. The Judge also noted that a psychological and psychiatric report is now available, and two witnesses have been questioned by the Examining Judge (Rechter-commissaris).
Videos and sound recordings available
The Prosecutor stated that they possess security footage from Lekker Bar and another establishment where Paesch can reportedly be seen. The Judge requested the Prosecutor to specify which specific images on the videos they find relevant. The Judge also asked defense attorney mr. Arends Marchena to specify which aspects of the videos are important from the defense’s perspective.
No videos will be shown in court
The Judge indicated that it would not be ideal to play the videos during the court session. However, the Judge mentioned the intention to listen to sound recordings. The Judge inquired about the forensic investigation of a bullet casing found inside a Suzuki Swift. The Prosecutor stated they would look into this matter.
Defendant refuses to speak further
The Judge noted that a third police interrogation had been planned, but Paesch stated that he will not say anything more, neither now nor later. The Judge asked Paesch if he intends to answer questions during the substantive hearing of the case. Paesch told the Judge that the incident still affects him deeply and he does not wish to recall what happened. The Judge stated that while they understand the case is tragic, questions will be asked during the trial to gain clarity. Paesch replied that it depends on the question, and he will see whether he chooses to speak.
Trial to last a full day
The Judge asked the Prosecutor how long they estimate their closing argument (requisitoir) will take. The Prosecutor estimated that the overall handling of the case will take at least a full day, with their closing argument lasting about 30 minutes. The Judge then asked mr. Arends Marchena for the estimated duration of the defense plea. Mr. Arends Marchena stated that the defense would take between 30 and 45 minutes.
The Judge announced the plan to handle the entire presentation of facts and questioning in the morning, followed by the closing arguments and defense plea in the afternoon. The substantive trial has been scheduled for June 19, 2026. The victim’s sister indicated that she wishes to exercise her right to speak (spreekrecht), and the Judge stated that this will be taken into account.