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Five Thuringia prisoners freed early under Christmas amnesty—two refused release

A holiday gesture with a twist: some inmates turned down early release. Why would prisoners reject freedom before Christmas?

In this image there is a book. The name of the book is St Nicholas for November. There is a santa...
In this image there is a book. The name of the book is St Nicholas for November. There is a santa claus and a kid on the cover page.

Before Christmas: Five Prisoners Released Early - Five Thuringia prisoners freed early under Christmas amnesty—two refused release

Thuringia has granted early release to five prisoners under this year’s Christmas amnesty. The scheme allows inmates with short sentences and good behaviour to leave prison before the holidays. Two of those eligible, however, chose to stay behind bars instead of accepting freedom early.

The amnesty programme applies only to prisoners serving up to two years with a record of exemplary conduct. This year, it cut a combined total of 120 days from the sentences of those released. Officials stated that early freedom helps inmates settle administrative tasks before the festive period.

The amnesty has now concluded for this year. Five inmates have left prison ahead of schedule, while two opted to serve their full terms. The scheme remains limited to those with short sentences and a clean disciplinary record.

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