Pre-trial detention extended for two suspects following videoed student assault
PHILIPSBURG (September 4, 2026) – Two suspects, ages 16 and 18, were arrested in connection with the public assault of another student on L.B. Scott Road on Wednesday, September 2, 2026. Their pre-trial detention (inverzekeringstelling) was extended by the Public Prosecutor yesterday, and both their arrest and (extended) pre-trial detention, was determined to be lawful by the investigative judge of the Court on Friday, September 4, 2026.
The incident, which occurred at the bus stop near St. Maarten Academy, was captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The footage shows a minor being physically assaulted by several individuals.
The Prosecutor’s Office Sint Maarten (OM SXM) and the Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) take this incident very seriously. Violence involving young people, whether committed at school or elsewhere, will not be dismissed as harmless behaviour.
The investigation remains ongoing. The involvement of the other individuals seen in the video is also being investigated, and further arrests or other actions may follow.
OM SXM and KPSM remind young people that assaulting someone, encouraging violence or otherwise participating in such an incident can have serious consequences. Parents and guardians are also urged to speak openly with their children about resolving conflicts peacefully and the consequences of becoming involved in violence.