In Amsterdam’s Red Light District, a hologram beckons for help. Representing Bernadett “Betty” Szabó, a 19-year-old Hungarian sex worker brutally murdered in 2009, the hologram is part of a Dutch police effort to uncover new leads in her unsolved case. It portrays Szabó sitting behind a window, knocking on the glass, and fogging it with her breath as the word “help” appears—a poignant plea for justice.
Szabó’s journey began in the Hungarian city of Nyíregyháza, where she grew up in poverty. At 18, she moved to Amsterdam, starting work as a sex worker. Shortly after, she became pregnant and gave birth to her son in November 2008. Just three months later, Szabó was found in her workroom, stabbed multiple times, her body lying in a pool of blood.
The initial investigation was extensive, involving CCTV footage, witness interviews, and a thorough search of the crime scene. Despite these efforts, the case turned cold. Now, over 15 years later, police are turning to technology to reconnect with the public and draw out new information.
Benjamin van Gogh, coordinator of the Amsterdam Wanted and Missing Persons Team, emphasized the potential of the hologram to evoke empathy and encourage witnesses to come forward. “It’s about creating a connection with Betty, showing her as a person, and inspiring informants to help bring justice for her and her family,” he explained.
The hologram campaign was launched with the consent and involvement of Szabó’s family, ensuring it remains dignified and focused on achieving justice. Police hope this innovative approach will break the silence surrounding the case, reminding the public that it is never too late to share critical information.
Research shows that perpetrators of violent crimes often confide in others. “On average, 2.2 people are told about such acts,” said police spokesperson Eline Roovers. “This means there are individuals out there who know what happened to Betty. It’s time for them to come forward.”
To incentivize tips, the reward for information has been increased to €30,000 (around $32,160). Given Amsterdam’s popularity among international tourists, police are also reaching out to visitors who may have been in the city in February 2009, urging them to share anything they recall.
This high-tech campaign underscores Dutch authorities’ dedication to solving cold cases, blending innovation and compassion to give Szabó’s story a renewed voice and a chance for justice.