We are representing a player in the international technology sector in an investigation in Latvia initiated by the Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau. A former employee of the client was convicted in a foreign country for a large-scale bribery, with payment of more than EUR 2 million in bribes alleged.
About the case
A case was then initiated in Latvia against the client, as the allegation was made that the bribery had been committed in the interests of the Latvian company, as well as that it was a result of insufficient supervision and monitoring; however, the client considers itself to be a victim of offences committed by the former employee. We are representing and defending the client against the allegations of bribery overseas.
The case against the client was initiated after the Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau received a mutual legal assistance request from the country where the bribery took place; the upcoming OECD Phase 3 evaluation was putting pressure on Latvian authorities to demonstrate how the previous Phase 2 recommendations were implemented. This is one of two cases that Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau has initiated to demonstrate that Latvia is contributing to the fight against international corruption. The Latvian Corruption Prevention and Combating Bureau has repeatedly indicated that it expects this to be the first landmark case of this type for Latvia.
Our team
The case is currently being heard in the court of first instance. Working on the case are partner Valts Nerets, counsel Dr Violeta Zeppa-Priedīte, and senior associates Agita Sprūde and Alisa Leškoviča.
