Sweden Sees Sharp Rise in Children Under 15 Facing Trial
Swedish courts are trying record numbers of children under 15 for serious crimes including murder. Prosecutors confirm this reflects growing youth involvement in violent offenses. The justice system uses special procedures since children cannot receive criminal punishment.
Sweden is experiencing a dramatic increase in children under 15 facing formal court proceedings. Statistics from the Swedish Prosecution Authority show 68 children under 15 have stood trial this year through September. The number for all of last year was 38 cases. Just two years ago, only seven children faced similar proceedings.
Prosecutors say this reflects growing youth involvement in serious crimes. Maria Franzén, a senior prosecutor, explained the trend to reporters. She said more children participating in crime naturally leads to more court cases.
This year, 43 of the 68 cases involve murder allegations. These include murder plots, murder attempts, and completed murders.
Swedish law handles young offenders differently than adults. Children under 15 cannot receive criminal punishment. Courts instead determine guilt through what's called a 'bevistalan' proceeding. This process establishes responsibility without imposing sentences.
The justice system faces new challenges as younger children commit serious violent crimes. Sweden must balance legal procedures with child welfare concerns as this troubling pattern continues.