No Finnish interpreter found
A Finnish man accused of doing a £2,000 'dine and dash' at one of Britain's most prestigious hotels has appeared in court.
Homeless Mikko Luistinen, 58, allegedly tucked into a sumptuous meal with wine at the five-star Dorchester Hotel on Park Lane, in May 2022 worth £1,936, with no intention of paying.
Staff called the police and he was arrested but then failed to appear in court after he was granted bail.
A warrant was issued for his arrest and he was finally held earlier this month.
Wearing a green jumper with matching trousers Luistinen spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth at Westminster Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
A Finnish interpreter was not available to assist Luistinen and the case had to be put back.
District Judge Briony Clarke said she was 'very sorry' the court had been unable to find an interpreter.
The matter was adjourned until Tuesday 22 April for a Finnish interpreter to appear via videolink.
