Rikosepäilystä

Rikosepäilystä refers to a suspicion of a crime in Finnish legal context. It is the initial stage in a criminal investigation where law enforcement authorities believe that a criminal offense may have been committed. This suspicion is the basis for initiating preliminary investigations, which are designed to gather evidence and determine whether there are grounds to proceed with criminal charges.

The threshold for a "rikosepäilystä" is generally lower than that for a formal charge. It requires a reasonable basis to suspect that a crime has occurred and that a particular person may be involved. This basis can arise from various sources, including reports from victims or witnesses, observations by police officers, or information obtained through other investigative means.

During the preliminary investigation phase, authorities may conduct interviews, collect physical evidence, and review documents. The purpose is to clarify the facts of the alleged offense and to identify any perpetrators. If sufficient evidence is found to support the suspicion, the investigation may lead to a formal charge and subsequent prosecution. Conversely, if the suspicion is not substantiated, the investigation may be closed. The concept of "rikosepäilystä" emphasizes the presumption of innocence, as it is a suspicion rather than a conviction.