Victims’ Commissioner responds to mistaken early prison releases under the SDS40 scheme

It has emerged that, earlier this month, 37 offenders serving prison sentences for breaching restraining orders have been released from custody in error.

Whilst set to be excluded from the scheme — known as SDS40 — incorrect logging of these offenders in relevant records held on the system, meant they were mistakenly defined as eligible under the scheme – and released early as a result.

Commenting on the issue, the Victims’ Commissioner, Baroness Newlove, said:

I’m very troubled to learn that 37 offenders were released early from prison in error as part of the early-release scheme introduced to tackle prison overcrowding (known as SDS40).

This news will have been distressing for the victims, particularly given that all the offenders were serving prison sentences for breaching restraining orders, indicating that they present a potential risk.

When this scheme was first announced, I said victim safety must be the first priority – and this remains my position. It is important every step is taken to make sure this error is not repeated. Returning all these offenders to custody must be an overriding priority.

I will continue to take a close interest in the operation of this scheme, highlighting the needs of the victims.

ENDS