Non-prosecutable

The adjective 'non-prosecutable' describes a situation or action that cannot be the subject of legal proceedings; it cannot be brought before a court for trial or judgment. This can stem from several reasons: lack of sufficient evidence, expiry of the statute of limitations, jurisdictional issues, immunity granted to the individual or action, or even due to a specific legal agreement such as a plea bargain. Ultimately, a non-prosecutable case is one that the justice system will not, or cannot, pursue legally. It is a declaration of legal immunity regarding a particular action or actor.

Non-prosecutable meaning with examples

• Due to a lack of credible witnesses and forensic evidence, the investigation into the alleged embezzlement was deemed non-prosecutable. The district attorney announced the case was closed, citing insufficient proof to meet the burden of proof required for a criminal trial. The case was dismissed, disappointing the complainants, but leaving the defendant legally untouched, free of any criminal charges.
• Because the act occurred over fifteen years ago, the crime was deemed non-prosecutable by the statute of limitations. The law specified a certain timeframe after the crime occurred. The case was shelved, removing the possibility of legal action and freeing the suspected offender. The victim's frustration was immeasurable, but the justice system would no longer be able to intervene.
• The witness's confession led to the discovery that they had diplomatic immunity, rendering their actions non-prosecutable within the host country. Any legal action was impossible, and so they were released and permitted to leave the country. The situation highlighted the limitations of the host country and the power of immunity in international law. This protected the witness from the possibility of trial.
• As part of the plea bargain, the defendant received immunity for several related offenses, resulting in those other charges becoming non-prosecutable. The legal agreement ensured he only faced charges for the primary offense. This ensured he cooperated and confessed, at the expense of other accusations. This allowed the legal process to continue swiftly with the defendant facing a reduced punishment.