Conditional release criteria scrutinized after Nytorgsmannen’s allegations in Sweden

In Sweden, inmates typically receive conditional release after serving two-thirds of their sentence. However, there are circumstances where the Swedish Prison and Probation Service may postpone this release, particularly if the individual exhibits serious misconduct while incarcerated. Christina Thingwall, a specialist in community service matters, states that the criteria for delaying release are stringent.

In one case, a man known as Nytorgsmannen faced allegations during his imprisonment for death threats made against a prison officer. Despite these allegations, Lisa Gezelius, the head of the unit handling his case, clarified that such actions do not qualify as misconduct under their regulations. She explained that while making threats is indeed a criminal act, the procedure involves law enforcement handling any potential new offenses committed while in prison.

Gezelius noted that if a situation has been reported to the police, they will initiate an investigation. Should charges be brought against the inmate, it would be seen as double punishment if the prison service also delayed their conditional release. Thus, the management of such incidents operates within distinct frameworks.

The decision not to postpone Nytorgsmannen’s conditional release has drawn criticism, especially following reports of his arrest for yet another alleged rape. The ongoing discussions highlight the challenges and scrutiny surrounding prison policies related to conditional release criteria.