Man admits murder but denies disturbing the peace of the dead

A 43-year-old man from Turku has admitted to killing a man whose body he kept on his apartment balcony for 75 days, according to court documents filed with the Southwest Finland District Court.

The suspect, who appeared in court on Tuesday, denies charges of violating the peace of the dead, arguing he did not handle the body in a way that would cause public offense.

Police discovered the 44-year-old victim’s body in April during a search of the apartment in Turku’s Varissuo district. The victim had been reported missing in February.

According to the summons, the men had argued in the apartment, after which the suspect struck the victim twice in the head with a hammer. Later that night, he moved the body to the balcony and kept it wrapped in a garbage bag.

Prosecutors are seeking at least 10 years in prison for the suspect. The court will deliver its verdict at a later date.