The government is weighing a policy change that could lead to more inmates in open prisons, raising concerns about safety and potential unrest
London: The government is thinking about easing rules for sending inmates to open prisons. But there are worries this could lead to more violence and drug issues.
They started this policy to help with overcrowding, but it’s raising eyebrows. Reports show over 140 inmates have escaped from these low-security jails in just two years.
Even during the holidays, more inmates were walking out. It’s a bit alarming, right? Officials say they can’t stop transfers even if inmates threaten to escape unless there’s solid proof.
Now, they’re looking to make this temporary policy permanent. They want to let inmates stay in open prisons for up to five years before release, instead of three.
Mark Fairhurst, who represents prison officers, warns that if this goes through, we’ll see a spike in violence and drug use. He’s concerned about the lack of security and staff in these open facilities.
Open prisons are meant to help inmates prepare for life outside by allowing them to work and visit family. But with fewer staff and less security, it’s a risky move.
Former justice secretary David Gauke thinks using open prisons more could save money and help reduce reoffending. But he insists on proper risk assessments before sending inmates there.
However, the current policy allows inmates to be moved to open prisons after just two weeks in a secure facility, which seems a bit rushed.
New guidelines have made it easier for inmates to qualify for open conditions, even if they have a history of violence. This has raised concerns about the types of inmates being sent there.
Fairhurst says this is leading to unsuitable candidates being placed in open prisons, causing issues like drug use and bad behavior. Some inmates are even refusing to work or are high on drugs.
Data shows a significant number of absconds from these facilities, and the lack of physical barriers makes it easier for inmates to leave.
Tom Wheatley, president of the Prison Governors’ Association, points out that transferring inmates against their will can create more problems. Open prisons aren’t designed for people who don’t want to be there.
He criticizes the selection process for these transfers, calling it a “tick-box” exercise that doesn’t consider the real risks involved.
While the government claims open prisons help with rehabilitation, Fairhurst argues that the current approach is more about freeing up space than actually helping inmates.
He warns that if they don’t listen to the concerns of those working in these facilities, we might see another incident like the 2011 riot at Ford open prison, which caused massive damage.
An MoJ spokesperson defended the policy, saying they’re only moving less serious offenders who meet strict criteria. They also mentioned that absconding inmates face serious consequences.
