epäilly

Epäilty is a Finnish term used in law and journalism to refer to a person who is suspected of having committed a crime. It functions as both a noun and an adjective; the noun form is epäilty (plural epäillyt), and the adjective form is used to describe something related to suspicion. The word derives from the verb epäillä, meaning to doubt or suspect; the prefix epä- signals negation or doubt.

In Finnish criminal procedure, a person becomes an epäilty when authorities determine there is a reasonable basis to investigate potential criminal involvement. The status is temporary and does not imply guilt. If the investigation advances, the person may be formally charged and the status changes to syytetty (defendant). If no charges are pursued, the status may end and the person is no longer considered an epäilty.

Rights and treatment: An epäilty is entitled to fair treatment under the Criminal Procedure Act, including information about the reason for suspicion, access to legal counsel, and, when needed, interpretation services. The presumption of innocence applies at all stages until a court issues a verdict.

Usage: The term is common in official communications, court documents, and media reporting, but it should be used carefully to avoid prejudging guilt. In everyday language, epäilty can simply mean someone who is suspected, not necessarily involved in a crime.

See also: Suspect, Defendant, Presumption of innocence, Finnish criminal procedure.