The investigation was launched in late 2018 following criminal complaints from the Norwegian copyright association Tono AS, the artist organization Gramart, the interest group for independent Norwegian labels Fono and the union for arts and culture, Creo.
The allegations concerned manipulation of streaming numbers.
The investigation has been extensive, and Økokrim has received assistance from foreign agencies in multiple jurisdictions. The investigative efforts outside of Norway have – in combination with the effects of Covid-19 pandemic – been delayed. Økokrim received documentation central to the case as late as this spring.
– Based on an overall assessment, Økokrim has found the evidence to be insufficient to continue the investigation. In order to bring charges, the prosecution must be convinced that criminal liability can be proven in court beyond any reasonable doubt. The same standard of proof applies to the prosecution as to the courts of law, says senior public prosecutor Elisabeth Harbo-Lervik.
Senior Public Prosecutor Elisabeth Harbo-Lervik will be available for interviews. Please get in touch with our media contact for an appointment.
Contact:
Phone: + 47 23 29 10 30 (08.00-15.45)
email: kommunikasjon.okokrim@politiet.no