Defense Attorney Explains Delays in Some Criminal Investigations

Prosecutors must carefully weigh evidence before filing charges, even in high-profile cases.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 4:27am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, the metal surfaces and reflective edges creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The careful process of building a criminal case can often lead to delays, as prosecutors work to ensure their evidence can withstand legal scrutiny.Salt Lake City Today

A second suspect was recently arrested in connection with the death of a Utah man, but prosecutors have not yet filed any charges. This situation highlights the broader question of why some criminal investigations move quickly while others take much longer. A defense attorney explains that prosecutors often take their time before filing charges, as they need to wait for medical examiner reports, interview numerous witnesses, and ensure they have a strong case that can be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Why it matters

The timing of criminal charges can have significant implications, as filing charges too early can risk the case falling apart, while waiting too long may raise concerns about the pace of justice. This story provides insight into the careful considerations prosecutors must make, even in high-profile cases where the public may be eager for swift action.

The details

In the recent Utah case, the man's wife and her boyfriend were arrested, but no charges have been filed yet. Defense attorney Susanne Gustin explains that prosecutors are examining every element of potential charges, such as whether it should be first-degree murder or manslaughter. She notes that in other cases, like the Saratoga Springs murders over a year ago, no charges have been filed, while in the Jennifer Gledhill case, a murder charge was filed even without a body. Gustin says the risks of filing charges too early include the case falling apart if the prosecution can't prove it beyond a reasonable doubt, leading to dismissal or a weak trial.

  • The recent Utah case involved a man's death, with arrests made last week.
  • The Saratoga Springs murders occurred over a year ago, but no charges have been filed.
  • The Jennifer Gledhill case resulted in a murder charge, even without a body.

The players

Susanne Gustin

A defense attorney who provided insight into why some criminal investigations take longer than others before charges are filed.

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What they’re saying

“It's not just, 'Oh, it's obvious that this person was shot and killed.' They're looking at every element of every charge. So, is this going to go in as a first-degree murder because it was an intentional killing? Is it going to be charged as manslaughter, a second-degree felony?”

— Susanne Gustin, Defense Attorney

“The risks are that they don't have their case tied up and they can't prove it beyond a reasonable doubt, and then it falls apart. The prosecution either has to dismiss the charges before trial, or they go to trial with a very weak case.”

— Susanne Gustin, Defense Attorney

What’s next

Prosecutors in the recent Utah case will continue to review evidence and determine the appropriate charges, if any, to file against the suspects. The public will likely continue to closely follow the progress of this investigation and others like it, where the timing of charges has become a point of scrutiny.

The takeaway

This story highlights the careful balance prosecutors must strike between moving quickly to address public concerns and taking the time necessary to build a strong, airtight case that can withstand legal challenges. The timing of criminal charges is a complex issue that involves weighing multiple factors to ensure justice is served.