A 19-year-old man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for the rape and murder of his 13-year-old ex-girlfriend in Hjørring. Despite admitting to the crime, he avoided indefinite detention, a decision that has sparked debate.

The Court of Hjørring reached its verdict on Friday, finding the man guilty of the brutal crime. While prosecutors had sought indefinite detention, the court’s majority ultimately rejected the demand.

The Medico-Legal Council had advised the court that custody was “required” to prevent the 19-year-old from committing new dangerous crimes. The council’s recommendation underscores the concern about the potential risk he poses to the community.

The court acknowledged the “very special ruthlessness” demonstrated in the crime but “emphasized the defendant’s age” as a mitigating factor in its decision. This consideration appears to have been pivotal in the decision against indefinite detention.

Retired prosecutor Jeanette Wincentz Andersen, with 40 years of experience, expressed surprise at the court’s decision not to impose custody. She referenced a 2012 case where a man, initially sentenced to custody but later released, went on to commit further violent crimes, including the murder of three elderly people. This case highlights the potential consequences of releasing individuals deemed dangerous.

Andersen emphasized the importance of considering whether an individual poses a danger to their surroundings when determining the need for custody. A minority of four judges in the Court of Hjørring voted in favor of custody, reflecting a division in opinion regarding the appropriate sentence.

Both the 19-year-old and the prosecution have the option to appeal the verdict. Andersen believes the State Prosecutor should consider an appeal, allowing the High Court to decide on the custody issue. The State Prosecutor will review the verdict to determine whether to appeal.