The answer is YES, but not in all cases.
This is where many people get confused about something called pretrial detention.
First, it is very important to understand:
Pretrial detention does NOT mean you are already guilty.
It is a precautionary measure — that is, a measure the judge may impose while the case is being investigated or the criminal proceedings are underway.
But… when can you actually be jailed before a sentence?
Generally when the Public Prosecutor argues, and a judge agrees, that there are risks such as:
A) The person may flee.
B) The person may threaten victims or witnesses.
C) The person may obstruct the investigation.
D) Or in certain offenses where the law provides for mandatory pretrial detention.
But pay attention:
Many people assume: “They put them in prison, so they must be guilty!”
That is false.
Constitutionally, a person remains innocent until a conviction is issued.
And here is the critical point:
There are people who spend months or even years in pretrial detention and are later acquitted.
That is why a strong criminal defense from the very beginning of the case is so important.
