Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The trial of ex-De Voorzorg director Tony Coonen faces a second delay due to a Limburg court staff shortage. Prosecutors seek 4-year jail, €8,000 fine, and 10-year driving ban over corruption linked to Hasselt project.
As GVA News reported, the verdict in the trial of Tony Coonen has been delayed once more, marking the 2nd postponement in the case. The court in Limburg explained that the ruling could not proceed because of a serious shortage of judges.
According to court spokesperson Luc Decleir, a workload review recently confirmed that judges in the district are already working large amounts of unpaid overtime. He stressed that this extra effort has now reached its limit.
What led to Tony Coonen’s Hasselt corruption trial and delays?
Prosecutors are requesting a strong sentence against Coonen. They are seeking 4 years in prison, a fine of €8,000, and a 10-year driving ban. The case involves not only Coonen but also 8 other defendants who are facing trial. The latest delay leaves all parties waiting for clarity on the outcome. The court has announced that a decision on when the verdict will be issued is expected this Friday, September 12, 2025.
On May 26, 2021, former De Voorzorg director Tony Coonen was arrested together with several officials in a large corruption and money laundering investigation. He was held in prison for 2 months before being released on parole in July 2021.
The Federal Judicial Police (FGP) of Limburg continued the inquiry and reported that Coonen abused his leading position at the health insurance fund between 2015 and 2020. Investigators estimate that he gained around €4.3 million through irregular contracts, favouritism, and the misuse of company resources.
A real estate developer was approved to build a new De Voorzorg office in Hasselt for more than €16 million in exchange for benefits. He also charged luxury dinners with expensive wines to De Voorzorg, with costs of over €23,000.
His partner was allowed to invoice the organisation €1,000 per hour, while his in-laws received reimbursement for fuel. These elements, documented by investigators, point to systematic misuse of power and financial misconduct linked to his leadership at De Voorzorg.
