The Prison and Probation Service in Denmark is facing criticism for excessively long waiting times for convicts of sexual offenses to receive treatment. This delay, sometimes exceeding a year, is drawing concern from both the Parliamentary Ombudsman and legal advocates.

The extended wait times impact the ability to assess and treat convicts during their incarceration, raising concerns about public safety and the potential for recidivism. The Ombudsman has emphasized the urgent need to reduce these waiting times, citing the interests of both society and the individual inmate.

Helle Hald, a spokesperson for Hjælp Voldsofre (Help Victims of Violence), describes the situation as “offensive and shocking.” She highlights the importance of timely treatment for victims and their families, who often rely on the justice system to provide punishment and rehabilitation for offenders.

The Prison and Probation Service acknowledges that a stay in a special unit is crucial for assessing the risk of future offenses. However, the Ombudsman’s statement reveals that some convicts are unable to access treatment during their prison sentences due to these delays.

Victims and their families often find reassurance in the availability of treatment for perpetrators, as it demonstrates society’s commitment to addressing and correcting harmful behaviors. Hald notes that some victims even persevere with reporting cases, motivated by a desire to prevent future offenses.

The Ombudsman initially raised concerns about waiting times in 2020 and revisited the issue in 2023 following continued complaints. While the Prison and Probation Service has increased the number of places, waiting times remain unacceptably long. The agency attributes the delays, in part, to a rise in rape convictions in recent years. In response, the authority is considering establishing an additional assessment unit in the western part of the country. The Ombudsman has requested an update on this matter by October 1st.