GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – A federal judge has denied a De Pere man’s request for an early release from prison during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ron Van Den Heuvel, 67, was convicted of fraud in 2018.
Van Den Heuvel cited his age, history of health issues, including diabetes, being in a wheelchair and lack of care in prison as reasons to serve his time at home.
The judge denied his request, saying Van Den Heuvel’s situation does not constitute extraordinary and compelling reasons for reduction of his sentence:
“The medical records from the institution indicate that Van Den Heuvel experienced a callous on his foot that cracked and required wound care. He was non-compliant with the care, as he was told to avoid walking on his foot. He was given a wheelchair at the time, but no longer needs the wheelchair. In addition, Van Den Heuvel is reported as being non-compliant with his diet and exercise program. He is gaining weight and his insulin dose continues to rise.”
Click here to read the decision
Van Den Heuvel was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud for arranging an illegal loan from Horicon Bank for his business, Green Box. He was sentenced to three years in prison in that case.
After that, federal prosecutors filed 14 additional counts against Van Den Heuvel, alleging he raised more than $9 million from investors – including the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. – but used some of the money on personal items, including a car and Packers tickets.
Van Den Heuvel is currently held at FPC Duluth. He has served approximately 23% of his sentence.
