David Lammy, the justice secretary, has been warned that a lack of safeguards regarding the early release of prisoners may jeopardize the safety of abuse victims. This warning comes as both the victims commissioner and the domestic abuse commissioner have urged the government to pause the planned releases, which are set to begin under the new Sentencing Act in September.
Concerns Over Early Releases for Violent Offenders
Jade Belgrove, a child rape survivor, expressed her fear for other victims, stating she is "petrified for the women who have been through this." The new legal framework, designed to alleviate prison overcrowding, does not exempt serious offenders, including those convicted of domestic abuse and terrorism. This has led to increased anxiety among victims, with some taking protective measures such as installing CCTV.
Charities like Rape Crisis England & Wales have reported that support services may soon be overwhelmed as victims receive notifications about the early release of offenders. The justice secretary, David Lammy, along with prisons minister James Timpson, has faced criticism for failing to implement promised safeguards and victim support systems prior to these releases.
Victims Commissioners Demand Action
In their letters to ministers, Claire Waxman, the victims commissioner, and Nicole Jacobs, the domestic abuse commissioner, emphasized the urgent need for risk assessments and victim notifications before any releases occur. Waxman stated, "I was repeatedly told that victims would be properly informed and reassured that measures would be put in place to keep them safe. What is abundantly clear now is that communication with victims, safeguarding and support has been an afterthought."
