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Berlin tightens day-release rules with ankle monitors for high-risk inmates

Violent offenders in Berlin may soon face electronic tracking—while new email surveillance aims to stop drugs behind bars. Will these reforms make prisons safer?

The image shows a man sitting on the floor in a jail cell, with a pair of footwear beside him. The...
The image shows a man sitting on the floor in a jail cell, with a pair of footwear beside him. The image is in black and white, and there is text at the bottom.

Law Allows Electronic Anklets for Prisoners on Day Release - Berlin tightens day-release rules with ankle monitors for high-risk inmates

Berlin is set to introduce stricter monitoring for certain prisoners on day release. A new law will allow electronic ankle monitors for inmates convicted of serious crimes like murder, manslaughter, or sexual crimes who may still pose a risk. The changes also include reforms to prison labour rules and tighter controls on email to reduce drug trafficking.

The electronic monitoring system will target inmates serving sentences for offences like murder, manslaughter, or sexual crimes. Authorities will assess each case individually, focusing on victim protection and public safety. Only those deemed high-risk will be required to wear the devices.

Prison labour conditions will also shift under the reform. Hourly wages will increase, following a ruling by Germany's Federal Constitutional Court. However, the maximum allowed working hours for inmates will be reduced compared to current rules.

In addition, correctional officers will gain the power to inspect incoming email in specific situations. This measure aims to curb drug smuggling inside Berlin's prisons.

The reforms will apply to a select group of prisoners, particularly those with violent or serious convictions. Electronic monitoring, higher pay for labour, and stricter email checks form the core of the changes. The law seeks to balance rehabilitation with tighter security measures.

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