Police searching for a toddler allegedly kidnapped by his babysitter who was previously behind bars for killing another child have found him dead.
Dean Verberckmoes’ body was found in the Dutch Zeeland province at Neeltje Jans, part of the Dutch Zeeland province.
The sad end came after a frantic two-day search across the Netherlands and Belgium when the four-year-old was last seen in Sint Niklaas near Antwerp, The Sun reported.
He had been with a man identified as Dave De K, 34, who was supposed to take him to his grandparents’ home - but they never arrived.
Dutch police earlier sent out an amber alert for child abduction with descriptions of little Dean and Dave De K.
Police said in a statement: “The police investigation pointed to a possible crime scene on Monday evening... and a police helicopter also joined the search.
"Around 10.00 pm (2100 GMT) the lifeless body of a child was found.
"We thank everybody who helped and are sending condolences to his family."
Local media reported in 2010 Dave De K was previously sentenced to ten years in prison for acts of child abuse, leading to the death of a two-year-old.
Dean’s mother said she often left Dean and his younger sister with a couple she knew- a friend and her partner, De K.
A 34 year-old man was later found by police alone in Meerkerk, Utrecht, and arrested. It is unclear for what crime.
Dean’s mother earlier told the NL Times : “We are terrified.
"I hope he brings my son back home. Or that he leaves him with people somewhere safe so that Dean is at least safe. If he wants to move on after that, I don't care.
“I hope my son is safely home soon. That is all I dare to hope for."
