A police officer in Finland has been found guilty of assault and misconduct after a violent confrontation with a 14-year-old boy in a youth care facility. The incident began when the officer responded to a disturbance call at a residential care unit in Nurmijärvi where two teenage girls were reportedly causing trouble.
The officer noticed a teenage boy recording him with a mobile phone during the intervention. The young person later explained he didn't know filming was prohibited inside the facility. He retreated to his room, but the officer followed and demanded the video be deleted. When the teenager refused, the officer grabbed him by the throat with both hands, forced him onto a bed, and applied pressure to his neck for approximately 10 seconds.
After the officer left the room, the teenager followed and made a swinging motion with his hand without making contact. The officer responded by forcefully throwing the boy to the floor, causing his head to hit the ground. The officer then pinned the teenager with his knee and applied handcuffs before placing him in a police vehicle.
The young person sustained visible injuries including skin abrasions, a bump on his temple, and required ambulance attention with paramedics suspecting a mild concussion. Medical professionals documented clear evidence of physical harm resulting from the encounter.
In court proceedings, the officer acknowledged using substantial force and admitted the teenager might have injured his head during the takedown. He defended his actions by claiming the boy behaved aggressively and attempted to strike him, though the court found the minor's account more credible.
The district court determined the officer's use of force failed to meet legal requirements of necessity and proportionality under Finnish police regulations. Judges noted the incident involved two separate assault situations rather than a single loss of control.
Finland's police system operates under strict guidelines regarding use of force, particularly with minors. The country has faced increased scrutiny over police conduct in recent years, with this case highlighting ongoing tensions between law enforcement authority and citizen rights.
The court sentenced the officer to 100 day fines totaling 3,800 euros based on his income. He was also ordered to pay additional compensation including 500 euros for pain and suffering, plus legal costs exceeding 4,500 euros. The Helsinki Court of Appeal declined to review the case, letting the original verdict stand.
This ruling comes amid broader European discussions about police accountability and appropriate force with vulnerable populations. Finland's legal system typically handles officer misconduct cases through independent investigation processes, with convictions carrying potential career consequences beyond immediate penalties.
The case demonstrates how Nordic countries balance law enforcement powers with strong protections for young people and care facility residents. Finland's child protection system places particular emphasis on the welfare of children in institutional care, creating high standards for those interacting with this vulnerable group.
Police representatives have expressed dissatisfaction with the verdict, indicating potential ongoing legal discussions about appropriate force guidelines. The outcome may influence future training protocols for officers working with youth in care environments across the Nordic region.