Yesterday the District Court of Reykjavík dismissed all charges in the case filed against Baugur CEO Jón Ásgeir Jóhannesson and his five colleagues. Below are some reactions from those involved in the case.
Jón Ásgeir Jóhannesson, Baugur CEO: “I welcome this outcome, it supports our case. After this finding it will be easier for us to continue to do our business.” (Fréttabladid)
Björn Bjarnason, minister of justice: “If there are any ambiguities that surface at this point and time that’s for the better because then the case will be even better prepared when it goes to court.” (Fréttabladid)
Jóhannes Jónsson, father and business partner of Jón Ásgeir: “I am overjoyed and this did not surprise me after all that has happened.The finding of the Reykjavík District Court supports what I have said before, this is all monkey business. If people use common sense they see that this case is complete rubbish.” (Fréttabladid)
Gestur Jónsson, defendant: “I think part of the problem is that the issues concerned are not illegal.” (Morgunbladid)
Jón H. Snorrason, prosecutor, head of the National Police’s Economic Crimes Division: “This is not over yet. This is just one of the steps that needs to be taken in order to bring the case to conclusion.” (Morgunbladid)
The Supreme Court will hear the appeal within three weeks.
