Criminal to Order Murder β Even Without a Response
Ordering a murder, even in a closed chat group without any replies, is a criminal act according to Sweden's Supreme Court.
The Swedish Supreme Court has ruled that soliciting someone for murder, even in a private chat group where no responses are received, constitutes a criminal offense. This decision highlights the seriousness with which the court views the act of putting out a call for violence, irrespective of whether there is a corresponding reaction from others. The court's reasoning emphasizes that by sending the solicitation message, the individual has done everything necessary to allow others to become aware of and potentially be influenced by the request. This landmark ruling sets a significant precedent in Swedish law regarding the solicitation of violent crimes, reinforcing legal accountability for individuals who may attempt to incite or hire others to commit offenses, even if those attempts do not result in actual engagement or cooperation. It underscores a preventive approach in tackling crime associated with hired violence, aiming to deter future solicitation for murder and related activities. The individual in question had previously been acquitted in lower courts, indicating a complex legal landscape around solicitation laws in Sweden. This ruling not only clarifies the legal ramifications for this behavior but also raises discussions about freedom of speech and the boundaries of permissible communication in private settings, ensuring that laws adapt to prevent potential harm in society.