Jussi Newhard Charged in Vastaamo Case, Highlighting International Crime
A 28-year-old man, identified as Jussi Newhard, has been charged with aiding and abetting attempted aggravated extortion in the Vastaamo case, which has deeply shaken Finnish society. The case is considered a watershed event for Finland.
Jussi Newhard, a user of a server managed by Aleksanteri Kivimäki, is alleged to have been involved in the hack and extortion of Vastaamo and its clients in 2018. The hack resulted in over 24,000 extortion attempts, with many victims being children or receiving treatment for severe trauma. Newhard denies the offense.
Kivimäki, the primary suspect, was arrested in France in 2023 and extradited to Finland. He was later released from custody while appealing his case. His release does not overturn his previous conviction and sentence for six years and three months.
Jussi Newhard, charged with aiding and abetting attempted aggravated extortion, is the latest development in the Vastaamo case. His involvement, along with Kivimäki's previous conviction, highlights the international nature of the crime and the ongoing efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
