Marco Borsato asks Dutch State for 391,000 euros in legal fees

Singer Marco Borsato has formally requested that the Dutch state reimburse him 391,000 euros for legal fees incurred following his acquittal in a high-profile sexual abuse case. Borsato was accused in 2021 by a woman regarding events that allegedly occurred when she was a minor. Although the Public Prosecution Service sought a five-month prison sentence, the court ultimately acquitted the singer due to a lack of sufficient evidence. Under Dutch law, defendants who are acquitted have the right to claim legal expenses, though a judge must now determine if the requested amount is reasonable and justified.

Legal counsel for Borsato noted that the singer has opted not to seek compensation for significant loss of income resulting from his career hiatus since the allegations surfaced. While potential lost earnings could amount to millions of euros given his previous status as a major touring artist, Borsato has reportedly decided against pursuing those damages. The court is expected to deliberate on the reimbursement request, although the timing for the final decision remains uncertain.