Concerns raised over upcoming book about murder of Jonas in Norway

The book titled “The Murder of Jonas – The Account of a Forewarned Killing” is set to be released in a few weeks. Authored by Stein Morten Lier, the editor of the podcast “Avhørt,” the book has raised concerns among Jonas Aarseth Henriksen’s family.

Ivar Borgen, Jonas’s stepfather, expressed the family’s distress regarding the book’s upcoming publication. He feels that the author is attempting to exploit the tragedy for profit, stating, “This is not a case for us; this is a significant part of our lives.” Borgen added that the timing of the book adds additional burden to their grief.

Vibeke Gjøslien, a public prosecutor, has formally requested the publisher Aschehoug to postpone the release until the case is legally resolved. In her letter, Gjøslien emphasized the potential risk of influencing witnesses and the implications of pre-judgment.

Although Gjøslien declined to comment further, Marius Dietrichson, an attorney representing one of the accused, criticized the book’s timing and the premature publication before any legal proceedings have begun. He urged the publisher to act responsibly and delay the release.

In support, Borgen echoed this sentiment and also raised concerns about factual inaccuracies in the manuscript, reinforcing that they view the situation as more than a mere case.

The somber backdrop of the book is the ongoing investigation into the murder of Jonas, who was found dead over a year ago. Five individuals are currently charged with murder or complicity, without any of them admitting guilt. The court proceedings are tentatively scheduled for late February next year.