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Some crime victims in England and Wales unaware of offenders’ early prison release | Prisons and probation


As the government prepares to release 1,700 offenders early to address prison overcrowding in England and Wales, victims’ commissioner Helen Newlove has expressed concern that many victims are unaware that their perpetrators will be released on Tuesday. Newlove had sought assurances that all impacted victims would be informed of any early release dates to request protective measures, but acknowledged that this has not been possible in every case.

The release of offenders is expected to start from 8am from prisons across the country, with some offenders being released after serving just 40% of their custodial term. Perpetrators of serious violent offences, domestic abuse, and sexual offences are supposed to be exempt from the scheme, but campaigners have raised concerns that the exemptions list is not comprehensive enough.

Charities like Refuge and the Centre for Women’s Justice have highlighted the risks associated with the early release of offenders, especially in cases of domestic abuse where victims may not be adequately protected. Probation officers have also expressed concerns about the lack of time to prepare for the release of offenders and the potential for reoffending.

In a damning annual report, the prisons watchdog found that many institutions are severely overcrowded and understaffed, leading to an increase in violence, drug use, and self-harm among inmates. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor emphasized that early-release schemes are not a long-term solution to the issues facing the prison system and called for increased investment in public protection services.

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Photo credit www.theguardian.com

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