Denmark proposes tougher laws on gang crime and violence for hire

Denmark is cracking down on gang violence and crime-for-hire cases. The government wants to increase penalties to keep residential areas safe.

Danish police recorded 79 new crime-for-hire charges between January and July. These cases involve hired violence, often called Violence as a Service. Police brought 316 total charges from April 2024 through July. The special crime unit NSK provided these official police figures. The Ministry of Justice published the data on Monday.

The Danish government has introduced a new legal proposal for consultation. The bill aims to punish gang crime and hired violence more severely. It will treat criminal families the same way as organized gangs. The proposal also targets people who provide minor help to gang leaders.

Justice Minister Nicolai Wammen said Denmark will not tolerate youth gang recruitment. He stressed that residential areas must stay free from fear and control.

The proposal includes extra security measures for public places and workplaces. Authorities plan to require background checks for dockworkers. The bill also increases penalties for breaking a local stay ban. A stay ban stops convicted criminals from entering specific town areas. Currently, breaking a stay ban results in a 10,000 Danish kroner fine. Under the new bill, violators will face 30 days in prison.

The proposal is currently open for professional consultation. Legal groups and police can submit feedback before the bill moves forward. (Source: CPH Post)