Hundreds of prisoners could be released early as Scotland's jails struggle with Covid-19
The Justice Secretary says up to 450 inmates will be considered for early release
Up to 450 prisoners in Scotland could be released early, in an attempt to keep inmates and guards safe during the coronavirus pandemic.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf revealed he has asked the Scottish Prison Service to consider releasing convicts who are in the last three months of their sentence if they were sent to jail for less than 18 months.
He said the “necessary and proportionate response” will help protect inmates and staff from Covid-19 and ensure the prison system can continue to run safely.
Only prisoners already due for release within the next three months will be put forward for release, with those guilty of sexual offences, domestic abuse, terrorism or coronavirus-related offences excluded from consideration.
Ms Yousaf added no-one sentenced to a post-release supervision order will be released early, while prison governors will also have the power to veto any individual from early release, where there is evidence that they would pose an “immediate risk to an identified individual”.
The process for choosing which of the approximately 450 eligible prisoners are released early is expected to take place within the next month.
In a statement to Parliament, Ms Yousaf said: “This is in the interests of maintaining security and good order, and safeguarding the health, safety and welfare of prisoners and those working in our prisons.
“This action will help give the SPS sufficient capacity, including increased single-cell occupancy, to continue to maintain a safe custodial environment.”
Victims and their families who have signed up to the Victim Notification Scheme will be informed if a relevant offender is to be released.
Following the statement, Scottish Liberal Democrat justice spokesman Liam McArthur said: “Making decisions like these, in the context of a pandemic, is an unenviable position to be in.
“It's all the more difficult because of where we started. Scotland's prisons were in crisis before Covid-19.
“We can't just shift that burden to other under pressure services like GPs and housing so there needs to be a proper support package accompanying emergency release.”
Scottish Greens justice spokesman John Finnie backed the decision for early release but added: “It is vital those released are given a safe landing going home, and for their families.
“Many prisoners are released with no home to go to and, as well as housing and financial assistance, individuals often need support with addictions and both physical and mental health issues.
“This is even more important in the current crisis.''
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