The incident relates to a case of aggravated fraud brought before the Porvoo District Court a year ago, where the accused was freed on the votes of two lay assessors. Police investigations have revealed that the lay assessor in question had already told the accused that the court would not find him guilty.
Deputy Chancellor of Justice Jaakko Jonkka said the lay assessor was disqualified from his post as a consequence of his sub judice. He has been relieved of his duties for the time being.
The lay assessor in question has been charged with a deliberate neglect of duty. He is also being charged because his decision stemmed from a private conversation with the accused.
The Finnish system of lay assessors has often been open to criticism. Many legal experts are ready to abolish the system.
Lay assessors have the same powers as judges. In addition, they are often selected on the basis of their political affiliation.
YLE24