
Hundreds of Prisoners to Walk Free Under Expanded Early Release Scheme
On October 1, 2026, hundreds of prisoners in England and Wales will be released early as part of an expanded scheme aimed at easing overcrowding in male prisons. Around 5,000 prisoners are expected to be released in stages over the next year under the 2026 Sentencing Act, sparking fears of a potential collapse in the justice system.6 sourcesSee all sources