The government is taking action to prevent jails from running out of space next year, despite releasing thousands of prisoners early. Over 1,200 criminals serving more than five years will be freed on Tuesday as part of the release scheme.
Former Tory justice secretary David Gauke will lead a review of sentencing to ensure there is enough space for dangerous criminals while also focusing on rehabilitation and punishments outside of prison. House arrest could become a more common sentence option, with the use of Home Detention Curfews (HDCs) being extended to 12 months.
Justice Minister Ms Mahmood stated, “We have an opportunity to reshape what punishment outside of prison looks like.” The review will explore new technologies like GPS tags and “nudge watches” to monitor offenders and encourage behavior change.
The review will also consider scrapping short sentences in favor of more effective community sentences, inspired by successful schemes in Texas. Ms Mahmood plans to visit Texas with Mr. Gauke to learn from their approach, which led to a decrease in reoffending rates and prison population.
Additionally, the review will look at recategorizing more offenses as domestic abuse and consider harsher penalties for certain crimes. Ms Mahmood emphasized the importance of addressing violence against women and girls in sentencing decisions.