Sweden Introduces Harsher Gang Crime Sentences

Sweden significantly tightened penalties for organized crime on 1 August, with new legislation allowing courts to impose sentences of up to twice the previous length in certain cases.

For example, a gang member convicted of illegally possessing a firearm can now face up to eight years in prison instead of the previous four. The tougher rules also apply to juvenile offenders, although the law still allows reduced sentences in certain cases.

The government says the changes are intended to combat organized crime, with criminal networks increasingly recruiting minors to carry out violent offenses, including contract killings.

The reform is part of a broader package that strengthens around 50 sentencing guidelines and was approved by parliament in mid-June.

The maximum prison term under the new sentencing rules is 18 years. Sweden said it drew inspiration from Denmark, where enhanced penalties for gang-related crime have been in place for several years.

(mja)