Thousands of women are being remanded in custody for offences that subsequently do not land them in jail, according to research. The Prison Reform Trust, in a report today, says too many women who pose no risk to the public are being sent to prison, parting them from their children and families. Over the past 10 years the numbers remanded in custody to await trial has more than trebled. Yet six out of 10 are either found not guilty or are given non-custodial sentences. " While in prison their lives are damaged by loss of homes, job prospects and contact with their family," says the report.

It claims the courts are opting for custodial remand rather than bail because of 'unacceptable failures' to assess the needs of vulnerable people.

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From:
Aftermath News
Top Stories - September 7th, 2004