The Slovak government approved changes to the Criminal Code to help reduce petty crime. According to the new rules, a third petty theft within one year will be considered a criminal offense, no matter the value of the stolen goods. This offense can lead to a prison sentence of up to two years.
The Ministry of Justice is also preparing more measures to manage public work and social benefits. If a person avoids assigned petty public work, they could face criminal responsibility in the future. There is also a plan for communities to agree on arrangements so that offenders can perform public work in a different community.
At the same time, the government is preparing changes to enforcement laws. These changes will allow for the use of enforcement measures against offenders who must pay for damages caused by theft or other property offenses.
Prime Minister Robert Fico supported the new rules, saying that petty thefts need a stricter response. Representatives of trade associations also welcomed the decision, pointing out the increase in aggressive behavior by repeat offenders in stores. They say that these repeat offenders are the biggest threat because they become more aggressive with each incident.
The government's reform plans include the parliament approving the changes quickly. The reason given is a sharp increase in petty property offenses and the aggressive behavior of those who commit them, which has increased tension in society.
