The Urgency of Terminating Investigations in Handling Corruption Cases in the Jurisdiction of the High Prosecutor's Office South Sulawesi

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to investigate the urgency of terminating investigations in handling corruption cases within the jurisdiction of the High Prosecutor's Office South Sulawesi. It seeks to identify the factors influencing the decision to terminate investigations, evaluate the effectiveness of such decisions, and propose recommendations for improvement.   Methodology: A mixed-methods approach is employed, combining quantitative analysis of case data with qualitative examination of legal documents and interviews with legal practitioners. Data is collected from corruption case files, legal statutes, and interviews with prosecutors and anti-corruption experts.   Theoretical Framework: Theoretical Framework adopts a normative case study approach as the main method to understand and analyse the urgency of stopping investigations in handling corruption cases in the jurisdiction of the South Sulawesi High Prosecutor's Office. In this context, the main focus of the research is on the concept of law as a norm or rule that applies in society, which guides the behaviour of each individual. Normative legal research, in essence, aims to identify, analyse and evaluate various legal aspects relevant to the termination of investigations in corruption cases. This includes an in-depth study of legal regulations, legal principles, and legal doctrines related to the investigation termination process.   Conclussion: The urgency of halting investigations into corruption cases lies in efforts to recover and restore state finances, as outlined in Article 109 paragraph (2) of the Criminal Procedure Code. Reasons for terminating investigations include insufficient evidence, absence of criminal offense, and adherence to legal principles. Investigators possess the authority to issue Investigator's Termination Orders, particularly in cases where no unlawful acts, strong evidence, or state losses are found. The application of Restorative Justice facilitates the return of state losses by corruption perpetrators while maintaining criminal sanctions against them.