Second wave of early prison releases under way in England and Wales
England and Wales have begun a second wave of early prison releases to combat severe overcrowding, with 2,000 offenders being freed this month. Meanwhile, the probation union is considering strike action due to concerns over pay and increased workloads.
Why it matters
The strain on the justice system and the potential impact on public safety are significant issues for the UK government's criminal justice policy.
A prisoner freed under the early release scheme leaving HMP Brixton on 1 October. A prisoner freed under the early release scheme leaving HMP Brixton on 1 October. Prisons and probation Second wave of early prison releases under way in England and Wales About 2,000 criminals are being freed this month to ease overcrowding, while probation union considers strike action
Prefer the Guardian on Google The second wave of early prison releases has begun, with hundreds of offenders walking out across England and Wales under the government’s controversial plan to ease overcrowding.
About 2,000 criminals, including domestic abusers and violent offenders, are being freed this month, with another 3,000 to follow in stages over the next year. The total was reduced from 6,000 after an intervention by Andy Burnham .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in