Conservatives seek to extend parole for lifers to 20 years

The Conservative Party in Denmark, led by Justice spokesperson Mai Mercado, is proposing to increase the minimum time served for parole consideration for life sentences from 12 to 20 years. This move aims to ensure that a life sentence remains the country’s harshest punishment, as longer sentences have been imposed on gang-related crimes under ‘gang packages.’ While life-sentenced inmates are typically released after an average of 16 to 17 years, the Conservatives argue that the principle of the life sentence’s severity must be upheld. The suggestion will be part of an upcoming sentencing reform proposal. Additionally, despite Danish prisons’ overcrowding issues, Mercado anticipates that the change will not noticeably affect prison populations, as life sentences are rare. The Conservatives also propose a temporary solution of bringing in Kosovar officers to Denmark to expand prison capacity.