Indefinite jail terms are an ‘affront to justice’ - probation watchdog

Politics
31 Aug 2025 • 3:02 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • The chief inspector of probation, Martin Jones, has called for an end to indefinite jail terms (IPP), warning that almost 2,500 prisoners remain "trapped" by the now-outlawed sentences.
  • Jones supports new proposals, including setting release dates within two years of parole review and providing mental health support, to address the ongoing injustice.
  • He cautioned that many IPP prisoners, some jailed for minor offences, will die in custody without intervention, noting a high number of self-inflicted deaths both in prison and after release.
  • Jones stated that the continued detention of individuals whose original crimes were not serious constitutes an "affront to justice" and advocated for judicial oversight of recall decisions.
  • He views the government's increased funding for probation services as a crucial opportunity to resolve the IPP crisis and ensure proper management of complex cases in the community.

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