Background & Purpose

The government identified a need to better protect the public from dangerous individuals who are at high risk of reoffending but do not qualify for psychiatric care or life imprisonment. This new measure aims to bridge that gap.

The Decision

The Swedish parliament decided to introduce security custody, a new penalty that allows authorities to keep dangerous offenders detained beyond their initial prison sentence if they remain a threat to others.

Does this affect you?

  • High-risk violent offenders: Individuals convicted of serious crimes against others who face a higher risk of being held in custody for longer than their original prison sentence.
  • The general public: Citizens receive increased protection through the state's ability to keep dangerous individuals detained as long as they pose a significant threat.

In Practice

  • Courts will set a minimum prison sentence followed by a 'frame time' of four to six years.
  • The detention period can be extended by up to three years at a time if it is strictly necessary to prevent new serious crimes.
  • The Swedish Prison and Probation Service can allow for conditional release outside of prison with strict supervision and support.
  • If an individual breaks the rules or commits new crimes during their release, they can be brought back into custody immediately.