Background & Purpose
Law enforcement needs better tools to stop serious crimes before they are fully carried out. The legal framework must therefore be updated to catch criminal acts at an earlier stage.
The Decision
The Swedish parliament approved the government's proposal to change the penal code, making it easier to punish attempts, preparations, and conspiracies related to serious crimes.
Does this affect you?
- Law enforcement and prosecutors: They receive stronger legal tools to investigate and prosecute criminal acts at much earlier stages.
- Individuals involved in criminal networks: They risk criminal charges and prison sentences earlier in the planning process, even if police thwarted the final act.
In Practice
- Police and authorities can punish attempted crimes even if a police intervention made it impossible for the crime to actually succeed, unless the act is clearly minor.
- Handling objects that are specifically suited to be used as tools for committing crimes will now be criminalized under preparation offenses.
- Preparation laws are broadened to include more ways of handling illegal tools and payment methods.
- Criminal liability for conspiring to commit a crime now applies simply when two people agree to carry out a criminal act.