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🇳🇴 Norway /Crime & Justice

Defense seeks acquittal for Steinar Wangen in Swedish murder case

From Aftenposten · () Norwegian

Translated from Norwegian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified In the courts
  • Steinar Wangen's defense attorney requested a full acquittal for his client, who is accused of murder or aiding suicide in Sweden.
  • The defense highlighted the absence of Wangen's DNA on a pillow found at the scene and questioned whether morbid chat messages constituted proof of murder.
  • Prosecutors are seeking a 15-year prison sentence with a minimum of 10 years for Wangen.

The defense for Steinar Wangen has formally requested a complete acquittal for their client, who stands accused of murder or, alternatively, aiding in the suicide of a Swedish woman. The trial is taking place in relation to events in Trollhättan, Sweden, in September 2024.

During the proceedings on Friday, Wangen's lawyer, Gaute Nilsen, emphasized critical points in the defense's argument. Notably, Nilsen pointed out that no DNA evidence belonging to Wangen was found on a pillow, which was a key piece of evidence in the case. The lawyer questioned the prosecution's reliance on chat messages, describing them as "morbid and sick," and asked whether these messages alone could serve as definitive proof of murder.

When it comes to all the chat messages, they can be called morbid and sick, but is it really proof that he killed her?

— Gaute NilsenSteinar Wangen's defense attorney questioned the validity of chat messages as evidence of murder.

In contrast, the prosecution has requested a severe penalty for Wangen, seeking 15 years of imprisonment, with a mandatory minimum term of 10 years. The case continues as the court weighs the evidence presented by both the prosecution and the defense.

No DNA findings from Wangen have been made on any pillow.

— Gaute NilsenThe defense attorney highlighted the lack of DNA evidence linking his client to a crucial piece of evidence.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Aftenposten in Norwegian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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