Hundreds of crime victims may be unaware that their perpetrators are set to be released early from prison on Tuesday, a move that has sparked concern and criticism from victims’ rights advocates. The government is releasing 1,700 offenders in an effort to ease overcrowding in English and Welsh prisons, but victims’ commissioner Helen Newlove has warned that some victims have not been informed of their offenders’ release.
Despite assurances that impacted victims would be notified of early release dates, it has been revealed that a “sizeable minority” were not warned. The release of offenders is expected to start from 8am on Tuesday from various prisons across England and Wales. Under the scheme, offenders are being released after serving only 40% of their custodial term.
Campaigners against domestic violence have raised concerns that the exemptions list for the early release scheme is not comprehensive enough to protect victims of serious violent offenses, domestic abuse, and sexual offenses. The charity Refuge has warned of potential repercussions for survivors of domestic abuse who may not know when their perpetrators are being released.
Probation services have been given limited notice to prepare for the release of offenders, raising concerns about the support and monitoring that will be available. The prisons watchdog has also published a critical report highlighting severe overcrowding, understaffing, and violence in many institutions, casting doubt on the effectiveness of the early release scheme.
Overall, the early release of offenders has sparked fears and criticisms from victims’ rights advocates, with concerns raised about adequate protection and support for victims of crime.
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