Justice Action calls on government to release some prisoners due to virus
A prisoner rights body is calling on the government to “act immediately” and allow certain inmates to be released before panic and chaos sets in amid coronavirus concerns. Here’s who they say should be let out.
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A prisoner rights body wants criminals sentenced to less than two years and elderly inmates to walk free amid the coronavirus crisis.
Justice Action has called for Australia’s Attorneys-General to “act immediately” to prevent the condition getting a hold behind prison walls.
The body wants the number of prisoners in the nation’s jails cut and for cells to no longer be shared to maintain social distancing.
There have been widespread riots in Italian prisons and Justice Action co-ordinator Brett Collins said there was a risk of chaos here as inmates started to feel panic and desperation.
“Total disaster is waiting to happen unless authorities are proactive, as once infections happen inside they will be much harder to handle,” Mr Collins said.
“Releasing infected prisoners would be much more difficult. They will have no home and no way to quarantine.”
Those who would be freed would be serving under two years, elderly or infirm.
There should be an increase in fines and corrections orders to ease the number of people being sent inside, Justice Action says.
The calls for mass release comes as Victorian prisons announce they will shut their doors to visitors indefinitely.
Instead increase phone access will be given to prisoners and each will be encouraged to write letters to family and friends on the outside.
Video calls will also form part of a trial in the unprecedented ban on visitors.
Corrections Victoria confirmed all visits to adult correctional facilities across the state would be banned from Saturday.
“This decision has not been made lightly and responds to the rapidly evolving COVID-19 situation and state and federal health measures,” a Corrections Victoria spokeswoman said.
“We understand the importance of family and community connections to both the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners, and to families and friends.
“Alternative communication measures will be implemented, including trialling video calls to ensure that prisoners their families and friends maintain face-to-face contact.
“The health, safety and security of the entire community, including our staff, prisoners and visitors, remains our top priority.
“Visits will recommence as soon as it is safe to do so, and we will continue to follow the advice of the Chief Health Officer, and federal and state authorities.”
Melbourne Remand Centre was put into lockdown earlier on Friday to inform staff of the change.
The organisation also wants to see a release on bail of defendants before court unless there is a “serious risk and no other alternative.”
It has also asked for computers with video conference capabilities to be allowed in cells to maintain family contact and external rehabilitation programs.
“Once the inevitable outbreak within the prison system begins, options for control, alleviation and safety will be severely limited,” Mr Collins said.
Justice Action also wants mandatory health screening for staff and visitors so visits can continue safely.
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