Scotland early release impacts victims. Check if affected via Victim Support or Notification Team for offender dates.
Scotland’s prisons got very full lately – the numbers stayed high. So, Scotland made a new law in November 2024. Some short-term prisoners will leave jail sooner, starting February 11. Instead of 50% served, they may be out after 40%.
Early release won’t happen in certain cases. These involve crimes with abuse. It also excludes crimes involving domestic abuse and sexual offenses needing registration.
Victim Support Scotland and the Prison Service want to help. They ask victims to check if this early release affects them. If a prisoner’s release date changes, they will tell you. They will inform registered victims before the release happens because of this new law.
If you aren’t registered, you still can find out. Call the Victim Notification Team at 0131 330 3664. It is open weekdays, 8 AM to 3 PM. Or, email them at SPSVictimNotificationScheme@prisons.gov.scot.
The Victim Notification team will check if you can get information. They’ll use the Scottish Courts or the Crown Office. Then, they’ll tell you the prisoner’s new release date. They will contact you by phone or letter. You can also ask Victim Support Scotland or Children First. They can request the date for you. After checking, they’ll share the release date with you.