Rising Numbers in Södertälje Reflect Growing Support for Exiting Criminal Lifestyles

In Södertälje, a significant increase is being observed in the number of individuals seeking to leave criminal lifestyles, supported by coordinated efforts from police, municipal authorities, and social services. This trend mirrors a national rise in cases where people are turning away from organized crime, supported by tailored long-term assistance programs.

According to Anette Berg, head of Södertälje Municipality's exit program, more individuals are recognizing the unsustainable and risky nature of their criminal paths. The program offers comprehensive, individualized support involving a dedicated coordinator who works closely with each participant throughout their journey. Berg emphasizes three key factors for successful exit: a genuine desire to change, stable employment or education, and continuous backing from a support coordinator. The ultimate goal extends beyond leaving crime to establishing a stable, law-abiding life that includes steady work, housing, and social securities.

On a broader scale across Sweden, exit programs operate in every municipality. Local police and social services collaborate closely to assess and assist individuals who express the wish to leave crime. Jonas Engström, regional exit coordinator for Stockholm, highlights a sharp increase in exit cases nationally — from about 150 in 2023 to an estimated 250 in 2025. In the Stockholm police region alone, over 400 cases were managed last year. Engström underlines the importance of crime prevention work and the encouraging success many ex-criminals have achieved.

Recently, a national contact point was established to streamline support services, focusing especially on youth and women wishing to exit crime. The initiative involves multiple agencies, such as the Police, Prison and Probation Service, and health authorities. Engström notes that helping individuals leave crime not only reduces human suffering but also results in considerable societal cost savings.

Additionally, Södertälje's outreach extends support to relatives of those seeking to leave crime, providing advice and guidance to strengthen the foundation for sustainable rehabilitation.

This growing movement in Södertälje and nationwide symbolizes a promising shift towards integrated, multi-agency approaches to crime prevention and rehabilitation, nurturing safer communities and better futures for those willing to change.