Denmark is set to implement stricter punishments for violent crimes as part of a new penal reform agreement reached by most parties in the Danish Parliament. The agreement, presented by Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard, aims to increase penalties for violent offenses and address the shortage of prison spaces.

Penalties for severe violence will double, while repeat offenses of simple violence, random assaults, and group violence will see a 50% increase. Simple violence is defined as actions such as throwing objects, pushing, hitting, and kicking.

The reform also increases the time served before parole eligibility for those sentenced to life imprisonment from 12 to 20 years. Additionally, penalties for possession and distribution of sexual material involving individuals under 18 years of age and environmental crimes will be doubled. The most serious cases of environmental crime will result in imprisonment.

Despite concerns about judicial independence, Minister Hummelgaard maintains that the reform does not interfere with the courts’ autonomy. The agreement also expands the use of electronic monitoring, allowing individuals sentenced to up to 12 months in prison to serve their time at home, excluding those convicted of violent crimes.

To address the shortage of approximately 225 prison places, the reform includes plans for a new women’s prison and a closed prison with 400 places, along with other additional prison spaces.

Director Ina Eliasen of the Prison and Probation Service hailed the agreement as historic, emphasizing its comprehensive approach to improving the prison system.