Comparison of offenders in forensic-psychiatric treatment or prison in Germany

Arrangements for the management of mentally disordered offenders vary widely across countries, as do rates of imprisonment and detention in forensic-psychiatric settings of such individuals. This study aims to quantify the characteristics of offenders detained in forensic-psychiatric settings in Germany over a 15 year period from 1995 and compare these with those sentenced to imprisonment over the same period.

Using official national statistical data, the index offences, demographic characteristics and criminal histories for all individuals convicted to forensic-psychiatric detention during the study period are described together with changes over time. This group was then compared with offenders convicted to a prison sentence of at least two years in the same time period for equivalent offences.

Relevant differences and similarities between the two treatment groups were identified. Compared to offenders in prison, those in forensic care were older, with a higher proportion of women and a lower proportion of those with foreign backgrounds. Significant previous offending and levels of diminished responsibility were present in both groups.

These findings provide data for future comparative research and indicate potential opportunities for earlier intervention to prevent trajectories into more serious offending, particularly in young people and those with mental disorder.