Early Release Scheme Error: 37 Prisoners Mistakenly Freed in England and Wales

Around three dozen prisoners, mistakenly released under an early release scheme to combat overcrowding, will be re-incarcerated, British justice ministry confirms. The error affected offenders sentenced under outdated legislation. Majority have been recaptured, with public safety being emphasized as a priority.

Three dozen prisoners were mistakenly freed from jail under an expansion of the early release scheme designed to address overcrowding, the British justice ministry stated on Thursday. Approximately 1,750 convicts were released this month as part of the scheme, which allows some prisoners to be freed after serving 40% of their sentences, down from the previous 50% requirement. Thousands more are expected to be released.

A justice ministry spokesperson, confirmed a report by the Daily Mirror, saying that a small number of offenders, incorrectly charged and sentenced under outdated legislation, were wrongly released. "The convictions remain valid with offenders monitored since their release, and they will soon be back behind bars," the spokesperson assured. "Public safety is our first priority."

A total of 37 prisoners jailed for breaching restraining orders were released in error. Most have been returned to prison, although five offenders are yet to be re-incarcerated. The justice ministry explained that charges against the 37 were processed under outdated laws, making the sentences mistakenly eligible for early release.

Britain, which has western Europe's highest incarceration rate, faces a prison overcrowding crisis worsened by tougher sentencing laws and delays in the justice system. Britain's Labour government, after assuming office in July, warned that prisons could reach full capacity within weeks, prompting the need for early releases. Serious violent offenders with sentences of four years or more were excluded from the scheme.

(With inputs from agencies.)