Czech Ministry of Justice proposes stricter penalties for violent crimes

The Czech Ministry of Justice has proposed amendments to the criminal code aimed at increasing penalties for violent crimes and improving protection against new forms of violence.

One key part of the proposal addresses digital harassment, such as sending unsolicited intimate photographs (dickpics). Under the new rules, perpetrators could face up to one year in prison if the act is committed intentionally and causes serious harm to the victim, such as damage to reputation, loss of employment, or psychological distress. The amendment also introduces penalties for genital mutilation and the unauthorized publication of personal contact information intended to facilitate harassment.

Additionally, the ministry seeks to remove alcohol and drug intoxication as mitigating circumstances in serious violent crimes. Currently, perpetrators who are under the influence may receive significantly lighter sentences. The proposal aims to ensure that individuals are held accountable for their actions regardless of whether they were in a state of intoxication caused by their own substance use.