Background & Purpose

Society needs better protection against individuals who commit serious violent crimes and have a high risk of reoffending, but who do not qualify for psychiatric care or life imprisonment.

Proposals & Debate

The government proposed a system where a court sets a minimum prison sentence followed by an additional 'frame time' of four to six years. This frame time can be extended by three years at a time if it is strictly necessary to prevent the person from committing new serious crimes.

The Decision

The Swedish Parliament approved the proposal, meaning that from April 15, 2026, courts can sentence high-risk offenders to security custody that can be extended indefinitely.

Does this affect you?

  • High-risk violent offenders: Individuals convicted of serious crimes who face longer, indefinite periods of detention instead of a fixed prison sentence.
  • The general public: Citizens receive increased protection through the extended detention of individuals deemed highly likely to commit new serious crimes.

In Practice

  • The court sets a minimum prison time equivalent to a standard sentence.
  • An additional 'frame time' of four to six years is added to the sentence.
  • The custody can be extended by three years at a time if the risk of reoffending remains high.
  • The Swedish Prison and Probation Service can allow for conditional release with strict supervision and support.
  • If the person misbehaves or commits new crimes, the conditional release can be revoked immediately.