The incoming chief of Finland’s police force is under a criminal investigation for alleged workplace bullying and discrimination, according to reports by the Finnish broadcaster MTV.
Seppo Kolehmainen, who is due to take up the country’s top policing post at the start of August, could face a charge of violation of official duty, as well as a breach of the Cooperation Act, over a series of alleged incidents between 2010 and 2013, MTV reports.
The investigation relates to a time when Kolehmainen was head of Finland’s Police University College, and later on the National Police Board.
A retired police officer brought the case against Kolehmainen and the current vice chancellor, Kimmo Himberg, accusing them of illegally forcing him out of his post as a specialist trainer at the college.
Kohlemainen confirmed to MTV that an investigation is underway, and told the broadcaster he spoke openly of the overhanging disciplinary procedure during his recruitment for the role of police chief.
The initial investigation into the allegations against Kohlemainen was concluded a year ago, and prosecutors are currently considering whether to bring charges.
Finland’s outgoing Chief of Police, Mikko Paatero, went into retirement in June, expressing disappointment that he was leaving before the conclusion of the trial against Jari Aarnio, the former head of Helsinki's drug squad who is charged with corruption and involvement in drug smuggling.
