The number of ex-offenders charged with serious crimes while on probation has surged by a third, hitting a record high, with 770 instances identified last year. Concerns are raised over the probation service’s ability to cope with the early release of prisoners, as high caseloads and pressures undermine public safety. Victims’ advocates and inspectors warn of the risk of reoffending and fatal errors due to inadequate planning and assessments, as new figures show a rise in serious further offences committed by released criminals.
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