Too Dangerous to Get Out? The Use of Individualized Release Mechanisms for Lifetime Incarcerated Offenders in Sweden

In Sweden, the harshest punishment that offenders face is a life sentence. Yet, in contrast to the United States, such a sentence does not mean that offenders necessarily spend the rest of their lives in prison. The Swedish government has traditionally been able to grant clemency to lifers, which has led to an average life sentence of about 14 to 16 years. In 2006, this clemency practice was modified with an act establishing a judicial process deciding about the release of lifers. This research finds that the 2006 act fits into the broader and traditional understanding of the Swedish criminal justice system as a rehabilitative institution focused on the individual offender. By evaluating the act on its impact on public safety, political acceptability, and on the lifetime incarcerated themselves, this article reveals how the 2006 act has so far particularly benefitted the lifetime incarcerated.