Swedish Government Proposes Expanded Police Powers to Search and Detain Minors

The Swedish government has proposed new legislative reforms aiming to enhance police authority to conduct body and home searches on children under 15 years old and to extend detention periods for suspects under 18. This move comes as part of broader efforts to strengthen crime investigations involving youth and curb criminal activities among minors.

Currently, police face significant restrictions on searching minors, particularly those below the age of criminal responsibility, as such searches demand special justification. Police are mostly limited to intervening in serious crimes, a constraint that has made it difficult to effectively address cases like a 14-year-old caught with drugs. The proposed changes would allow police to carry out body and home searches more frequently, especially in cases involving theft and drug possession.

Alongside expanded search powers, the government is considering extending the detention period for suspects under 18 from three to five months. This extension is justified by the increasing complexity of investigations, especially connected to gang-related youth crimes. The proposals are set to take effect on July 1 and coincide with potential plans to lower the age of criminal responsibility for serious offenses to 13 years.

However, these reforms have drawn criticism and concern. The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention (Brottsförebyggande rådet) warns that longer detention times may paradoxically reduce the effectiveness of investigations. International bodies like UNICEF have also previously criticized Sweden for its extensive detention durations for minors, highlighting the delicate balance between law enforcement needs and protecting children's rights.

Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer affirmed that whilst protecting young individuals from criminal involvement remains a priority, the enhanced police powers are vital for addressing youth crime more effectively. The proposals reflect the government's attempt to adapt legal frameworks to current challenges posed by youth crime, aiming for a more proactive approach in crime prevention and investigation involving minors.