The central theme of this issue is “The Shady Side of Sanctioning.” It describes the sanctions system laid down in the Penal Code of 1886 and considers whether it should be revised. The journal also reviews a new perspective on sentencing and conditional sentencing. In the 1980’s conditional release (parole) was abolished, but the Minister of Justice intends to reintroduce it into the Dutch penal system. The journal considers arguments for and against that proposal. It also discusses exchange of information within the penal system and the role of the Centraal Justitieel Incasso Bureau as information broker. The journal examines execution of community sanctions and advocates redistribution of powers between the courts. Finally, it considers the expansive growth of community sanctions and whether their combination of punishment and reintegration offers a potentially successful approach to reducing recidivism and thus contributing to safety in society. Notes, references, tables