The British government intends to release around 2,000 prisoners early in a single day as part of an effort to address overcrowding in UK prisons. British media reported that this early release will take place on September 10th and will include convicts serving sentences of less than 5 years.
Additionally, a second batch of 1,700 prisoners, all of whom are incarcerated for more than 5 years, will be released on October 22nd. The decision is in accordance with a new law that allows for their release after serving 40% of their sentences.
According to authorities, this will create approximately 5,500 vacancies in prisons. It is noted that the early release will include violent offenders who have served less than 5 years but will exclude those serving longer sentences for more serious violence, as well as those convicted of sexual or terrorist crimes.
The British Ministry of Justice stated that any prisoner released will be subject to strict monitoring, which may include the use of electronic ankle tags. They confirmed that any violators will be returned to prison if they breach the conditions of their early release.
