Former KuPS player suspected of four rapes

A former player for Kuopion Palloseura (KuPS) is now suspected of four rapes, according to a detention order issued today by Pohjois-Savo District Court.

The 18-year-old man was first detained in late May on suspicion of three rapes and one sexual violation, with the alleged offences occurring between late March and late May. The new court decision extends his detention and adds a fourth rape, alleged to have taken place on April 5.

KuPS signed the player in early March but terminated the contract once the allegations came to light. The club’s lawyer, Matti Reinikainen, told Yle in May that the suspected crimes were unrelated to the player’s activities with the team and occurred during his free time.

The player’s representative, contacted by Yle in May, stated that the suspect denies the allegations. Investigative details remain undisclosed; lead detective Terhi Heinonen previously cited investigative reasons for withholding further information, including whether the offences involved one or multiple victims.

Yle is not naming the player as he has only been suspected, not charged.