Raimo Puolimatka, a 77-year-old real estate investor, has been convicted of building violations by the Varsinais-Suomi District Court and fined 50 day fines amounting to €41,850. The court determined that between February 7, 2018, and November 27, 2024, he allowed his protected property, consisting of historic wooden houses in Turku, to deteriorate for over six years. The facades of these houses were neglected, rendering them in an unsafe and unhealthy state, contrary to the requirements of safety and usability.

The properties, located at Kaskenkatu 3 in the center of Turku, date back to the 1800s and are recognized for their historical and environmental significance. The court characterized Puolimatka's actions as deliberate, citing evidence that suggested he intended to allow the buildings to fall into such disrepair that they would ultimately need to be demolished. This raises serious concerns about the preservation of cultural heritage in urban areas, as neglected properties can lead to wider systemic issues within communities.

The ruling emphasizes the responsibility of property owners, especially of historically significant buildings, to maintain their conditions. The case has sparked discussions about the importance of protecting Finland's architectural heritage and may serve as a precedent in holding investors accountable for the preservation of properties that hold significant cultural value.