We fear for our lives after being told our abusive exes will be freed from jail early
Three victims of domestic abuse tell the BBC why they feel let down by the early prisoner release scheme.
Three women have expressed fear for their safety after being informed that their abusive ex-partners will be freed early from jail due to the government's plan to release prisoners in England and Wales. Around 700 inmates will be released on Thursday, with 3,800 more scheduled for release over the next year. Claire Milne, whose ex-husband Robert Dales was convicted of coercive control and possessing offensive weapons, is particularly scared of her ex-partner.
She claims he was capable of violent behavior during their relationship and is angry with the government for not considering her safety concerns. The Ministry of Justice states that while they are committed to keeping dangerous criminals behind bars, the early release scheme aims to free up prison space. Victims have been notified of their ex-partner's early release through letters, causing distress and fear.
Dame Nicole Jacobs, the domestic abuse commissioner, called the scheme shameful and demanded urgent action from the Prime Minister to address the damage to victims' confidence in the justice system.
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