More stolen goods on Vinted since riots in France: Buyers risk fine or prison

An increasing number of potentially stolen items have been appearing on the second-hand sale platform Vinted since the riots in France this past weekend. The Dutch police warn Vinted users that buying and possessing stolen goods is also a criminal offense. Offenders risk fines, imprisonment, and a criminal record, the police told Hart van Nederland.

The riots in France followed demonstrations against and growing unrest about the rising cost of living. Rioters looted several shops over the weekend, including luxury stores.

Dutch law distinguishes between three types of handling stolen goods. The least severe is “negligent handling,” where the person should have suspected that they were buying or selling stolen goods. This carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison.

“Intentional handling” is when someone knows the items are stolen and carries a maximum penalty of four years in prison. The most severe form, “habitual handling,” is for repeat offenders, who face up to six years in prison. All three forms can also be punished with a fine, the amount of which depends on the severity of the offence.

The police warn that not only the seller, but also the buyer of stolen goods can be held liable under the law. So use caution when buying items from Vinted in the coming period.