Great Britain: 1,700 British prisoners released early due to lack of space

To make room in the overcrowded prisons, come in Great Britain A total of 1,700 prisoners were released early. Otherwise, there was a risk of “unchecked crime” because the police and courts were unable to lock anyone up, the government in London justified the move. There are currently hardly any free places left in prisons.

The rule allows some prisoners to be released after serving 40 percent of their sentence. Normally, at least half of the sentence must be served before a prisoner can be released on parole.

The British judiciary is currently taking tough action against rioters who attacked police officers and asylum seekers' accommodation, set fire to vehicles and looted shops during the right-wing extremist and anti-Muslim riots in cities this summer. More than 200 people have already been convicted, most of them to prison terms. Hundreds more charges are pending.

Most recently, a judge had already decided that district courts in England and Wales – so-called Magistrates' Courts – should, if possible, postpone such dates at which defendants could be sent to prison.

Government sees responsibility with the Conservatives

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Social Democratic government acknowledged that it was “incredibly difficult” for victims to learn that offenders would be released before serving their sentence. “This is another difficult, tough but necessary measure that we are taking,” a government spokeswoman said. At the same time, she said the core problem was that the previous government had not created enough prison places.

Not all prisoners can benefit from early release. Those serving sentences for terrorism, sexual offenses, domestic violence and serious crimes will not be released, the government announced.

Overcrowding, rat infestations, gang violence, staff shortages: the conditions in some prisons in England and Wales are considered worrying, even according to official documents. Some of the buildings date back to the 19th century and have never been properly modernized.

Aid organizations skeptical

For those who are released, the probation service has made preparations, Police Secretary Diana Johnson told the BBC. “People are being released on probation and can be recalled if they commit further crimes.”

However, aid organizations that work against domestic violence warn that there may be many exceptions. In the past, it has not always been possible to carefully check released offenders and prevent them from committing new crimes.

Other activists criticised the fact that many young men in particular would be released without receiving any support in finding a job or housing. “As a result, there is a risk that the release programme will jeopardise rehabilitation and increase the rate of recidivism if it is not accompanied by appropriate support and effective reintegration,” stressed the organisation Switchback.

The Law Society called it a pragmatic decision. “Given the deplorable state of our prisons, this is not an ideal step,” said President Nick Emmerson. “But it does create more time and space for longer-term solutions to the many problems that plague our criminal justice system.”