Oversight of convicted criminals in Denmark faces significant shortcomings, report reveals

Oversight of convicted criminals in Denmark is facing significant shortcomings, as highlighted in a recent report by the state’s auditing agency, the Rigsrevisionen. The report criticizes the Danish Prison and Probation Service (Kriminalforsorgen) for inadequate supervision of individuals on probation, those released on parole, and those monitored by electronic tracking devices.

Steffen Larsen, chairman of the Danish Parliament’s Justice Committee, labeled the situation as “shameful,” emphasizing the importance of legislative adherence to rules governing oversight practices. He pointed to a notable case involving a convicted murderer who was released to serve part of their sentence at home without a thorough risk assessment. This individual allegedly committed fraud against two disabled men while under supervision. The Danish authorities acknowledged the failure in oversight, stating it was “deficient and often absent for months.”

Critics have pointed out that the lack of adequate supervision has been a persistent issue for years, with recurring evaluations from the Rigsrevisionen expressing dissatisfaction with the Kriminalforsorgen’s performance. An internal review revealed that in many instances, the oversight frequency was not met, and there were delays in summoning individuals to meetings following their absences. Additionally, the agency often failed to respond appropriately to new charges against approximately half of those monitored.

John Vestergaard, head of the oversight branch of Kriminalforsorgen, admitted that the current state of supervision is insufficient and pledged to implement initiatives aimed at improvement. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard also expressed his concern over the ongoing challenges, confirming that measures, including the formation of a new task force, are being put in place to enhance future oversight practices.