The Victims’ Commissioner, Helen Newlove, has expressed concerns that hundreds of survivors of crime are not being informed of their perpetrators’ early release from prison. This comes as the government prepares to release 1,700 offenders to ease overcrowding in prisons in England and Wales.
Newlove stated that she had sought assurances that impacted victims would be informed of any early release dates to allow them to request protective measures. However, a “sizeable minority” of victims have not been warned.
The release of offenders is expected to begin on Tuesday from prisons across England and Wales. Perpetrators of serious violent offences, domestic abuse, and sexual offences are supposed to be exempt from the scheme, called SDS40, but campaigners warn that the exemptions list is not comprehensive enough.
Probation officers have been given as little as a week’s notice to prepare for the release of some offenders, which may lead to challenges in providing adequate support. The prisons watchdog has also published a critical report highlighting overcrowding, understaffing, and violence as pressing concerns in many institutions.
The annual report found a surge in illicit drug use, self-harm, and violence in prisons, with concerns raised about the lack of preparation for inmates’ release. Chief Inspector of Prisons Charlie Taylor stressed the need for prisons to be equipped to reduce the risk of reoffending and protect the public.
In response to these concerns, the government has emphasized the necessity of releasing prisoners early to prevent unchecked criminality due to prison overcrowding. However, concerns remain about the impact of these releases on survivors of crime and the ability of probation services to adequately monitor and support offenders.
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