Defence Staff acquisitions officer faces corruption charges
Commander took part in golf events sponsored by photocopier company
Jukka Rappe
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An officer working at Finland's Defence Staff has been charged with accepting bribes. State Prosecutor Jukka Rappe says that the officer, who has decided on acquisitions of office equipment for the Defence Staff, had taken part in golf events arranged by a supplier of photocopiers.
According to the prosecutor, the actions of the officer "tend to weaken confidence" in official decisions. The defendant denies the charges.
The indictment alleges that the officer, an avid golfer, took part in about ten golfing events in 2000 - 2002 which were paid for by a representative of the photocopier supplier.
He and his wife were also invited at least once to the Savonlinna Opera Festival.
The events also involved food and drinks, as well as corporate gifts, such as golf balls with the logo of the company in question.
The prosecutor estimates the total value of the hospitality and benefits at more than EUR 1,500.
No charges are being filed against the company, whose actions are seen to fall within the bounds of ordinary marketing efforts. There was also no indication that the gifts and hospitality had actually influenced the officer's purchase decisions.
The defence sees the actions as part of normal business dealings. The defence notes that the officer's superiors would also often participate in the activities in question, and says that it is unfair that only one person should face charges.
The defence also points out that all of the acquisitions were based on proper bids for tender and acquisition contracts. Equipment was also bought from different manufacturers, and other companies also engaged in public relations activities.
The court of first instance in this case, the Helsinki Court of Appeal, must now decide on the extent to which civil servants can take part in marketing events. A decision is expected in January.
Helsingin Sanomat
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| 17.12.2004 - TODAY |
 Defence Staff acquisitions officer faces corruption charges |
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