The policy on early prisoner releases has been revised by a high-ranking official, following widespread criticism and calls for reform.
The decision will impact prisoners who were initially set to be released early from September, including those convicted of manslaughter in a high-profile case. The driver of the vehicle involved in the incident received a 16-year sentence, and will not be eligible for the scheme.
The two passengers in the car, who were handed 13 years in custody for manslaughter, were initially set to be released after serving half of their sentences, rather than two-thirds. The revised policy will ensure they serve a longer period in prison before being eligible for release.
The decision comes after the widow of a police officer killed in the incident spoke out against the early release scheme. She criticized the policy as 'deplorable' and expressed her concerns about the potential consequences for victims' families.
The revised policy aims to address concerns about public safety and the impact on victims' families. The exact implications of the change are still being assessed, but it is clear that the policy has been revised in response to mounting pressure for reform.
