Unutilized Quarantine System for Rocker and Gang Members on Social Benefits
A recent report by Ekstra Bladet reveals that a quarantine system intended to impact rocker or gang members receiving social benefits has never been put into practice. This information is based on a response from Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard (S) from mid-September, highlighting the lack of implementation of this system since 2019.
Key Points from the Response:
– Since 2019, there have been 18 notifications from the Correctional Service to Udbetaling Danmark regarding released individuals convicted under a specific section of the penal code.
– Individuals convicted under section 81a of the penal code for gang-related crimes are subject to the quarantine system.
– This system entails a reduction in the released individual’s social benefits to the lowest possible level for a three-year quarantine period, as described by former Minister of Employment Troels Lund Poulsen (V) in 2019.
– Despite the 18 notifications during this period, none of the individuals had received or applied for benefits from Udbetaling Danmark, such as disability pensions, according to the parliamentary response.
Insights into the Quarantine System:
The quarantine system, previously praised as a “sensible arrangement” by Minister of Employment Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen (S) in early October, was highlighted in response to the alarming statistic that 11% of registered rocker or gang members in Denmark received senior or disability pensions last year. This led to discussions about revising regulations for criminals on disability pensions.
Proposed Regulatory Changes:
– Minister Halsboe-Jørgensen expressed concern about individuals who could receive disability pensions while engaging in serious criminal activities.
– She intends to tighten regulations so that individuals repeatedly involved in serious crimes can have their disability pensions revoked.
– The Minister plans to initiate discussions on these proposed changes later this year, as mentioned in a parliamentary response on Monday.
In conclusion, the discussion surrounding the underutilization of the quarantine system for rocker and gang members on social benefits sheds light on the need for effective measures to address the intersection of social welfare and criminal behavior. The proposed regulatory changes aim to prevent individuals from benefiting from disability pensions while engaging in criminal activities, emphasizing the importance of aligning social support with legal accountability.