The Victims’ Commissioner, Helen Newlove, has raised concerns that hundreds of survivors of crime are unaware that their perpetrators will be freed on Tuesday, despite requests for them to be informed. The government is set to release 1,700 offenders in England and Wales to ease prison overcrowding. Newlove emphasized the importance of notifying victims of their offender’s release and providing them with protective measures.
Some victims have not been informed due to the challenges of reaching certain groups, leaving them vulnerable and unaware of the imminent release. While the government acknowledges the difficulty of the situation, they stress the necessity of the early release to prevent unchecked criminality due to prison overcrowding.
The release of offenders is expected to start on Tuesday with prisons across England and Wales releasing several dozen each. The offenders will be released after serving only 40% of their custodial term under the scheme SDS40. Exemptions for serious violent offences, domestic abuse, and sexual offences have been made, but concerns remain about potential loopholes that could put victims at risk.
Probation officers have expressed concerns about the limited notice given to prepare for the offenders’ release, potentially leading to challenges in finding housing and support. Additionally, a critical report from the prisons watchdog highlighted severe overcrowding, understaffing, and violence in many institutions, emphasizing the need for long-term solutions beyond the early-release scheme.
Source
Photo credit www.theguardian.com
