Official announcements from the UK government or the UK Justice Secretary

UK Activates 'Operation Early Dawn' to Release 5,500 Prisoners Amid Riot Sentences

Aug 19, 2024, 09:31 AM

The UK government has activated emergency measures, known as 'Operation Early Dawn', to address prison overcrowding as more individuals are sentenced for their involvement in recent riots. This measure allows for the early release of some prisoners, with UK Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood announcing that 5,500 prisoners will be released starting in September, to make space for those newly sentenced, particularly those involved in the riots. The situation has raised concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the criminal justice system. Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, is also involved in discussions regarding the riots. The Prison Officers' Association and other officials have warned about the crisis, noting that the system was already under strain prior to the riots. The government is also utilizing police cells as temporary holding spaces for offenders due to the lack of available prison space. A man has been sentenced to three years in prison for social media posts related to the riots.