Scotland Jails See Early Prisoner Releases Under New Scheme

Some prisoners left jail in Scotland as an early release program began. Convicts exited HMP Edinburgh today, Tuesday, February 18th, with the goal to reduce overcrowding. Up to 390 inmates could be released early.

One released prisoner spoke to reporters of his plans to improve his life. Emergency laws passed last year allowed this, as eligible inmates serving under four-year sentences now serve 40%, not 50%.

The program has limitations, excluding domestic abuse and sexual offense convicts from eligibility. Scotland’s prisons hold about 8,300 inmates, while the capacity target is now 8,007. Early releases should lower numbers, targeting a five percent drop.

Justice Secretary Constance commented that released prisoners face many sentence types, including some who committed violent crimes. She said the releases are vital for safer prisons and important rehabilitation efforts, while speaking to the BBC.

Constance mentioned crimes of violence affecting a noticeable proportion of inmates currently serving short sentences. She stated a key legislative reason: the need for a sustained prison population drop to ensure prison safety, accommodate dangerous convicts, and support rehabilitation, reducing repeat offenses, as prison work links to community safety.