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Jersey justice minister plans draft law for mandatory post-prison probation by 2027
Overview
Jersey's Justice and Home Affairs Minister Helen Miles has announced plans to introduce a draft law in the first half of 2027 making post-custodial probation supervision a legal requirement for released prisoners. Currently, Jersey is the only place in the British Isles without mandatory post-release probation, with prisoners often released at the two-thirds point without supervision. While supporters argue the change is vital for public safety and rehabilitation, the Probation Service has raised concerns regarding potential unintended consequences, such as unnecessary prison recalls for minor breaches.
Key points
- Jersey's Justice and Home Affairs Minister Helen Miles will bring a draft law for mandatory post-prison supervision to the States in the first half of 2027.
- Jersey is currently the only place in the British Isles without post-custodial supervision legislation, where engagement with probation is voluntary.
- A 2024 HM Chief Inspector of Prisons report on Le Moye Prison highlighted the lack of mandatory post-release supervision as a potential risk to public protection.
- Chief Probation Officer Mike Cutland noted potential benefits for public safety and rehabilitation, but warned against overly rigid enforcement leading to unnecessary prison recalls for minor breaches.
- Former prison governor Susie Richardson and Professor Fergus McNeill emphasised that successful implementation requires proper resourcing, staffing, and targeted support rather than just a new law.