More than 100 moderate to high-risk sex offenders did not complete a rehabilitation program before being released from prison. This data was revealed in a freedom of information request viewed by The Herald, indicating that 158 prisoners left prison before finishing the Moving Forward to Change (MF2C) program between March 2021 and June 2024. The MF2C program aims to reduce the risk of reoffending among males convicted of sex crimes, specifically those assessed to be of medium to high risk.
Campaign group For Women Scotland expressed concerns about these figures, calling them “wilfully reckless” and warning that women and children could be endangered. The group suggested that offenders should not have the option to refuse participation in the program, and those released before completion should be mandated to finish it as a condition of parole.
HMP Glenochil, HMP Edinburgh, and HMP Barlinnie were the prisons with the most registered sex offenders who were released before completing the rehabilitation course. For Women Scotland emphasized the importance of rehabilitation programs in reducing recidivism rates among sex offenders, highlighting the rise in the number of registered sex offenders in Scotland over the past decade.
As of August 2024, there were 7,120 registered sex offenders in Scotland, showing a significant increase from previous years. The figures have also raised concerns among politicians, with Sharon Dowey from the Scottish Tories criticizing the SNP government for not fully funding prison facilities and focusing on prisoner rehabilitation. She stressed the need for every sexual offender to complete the program before being released.
A Scottish Prison Service spokesman acknowledged the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on offender behavior programs, stating that efforts are being made to increase access to these courses. The Scottish Government clarified that decisions about releasing individuals are made by the independent Parole Board based on public safety risks.
Overall, the incomplete rehabilitation of sex offenders before their release from prison has sparked debates about the effectiveness of such programs and the need for more stringent measures to ensure the safety of the community. Addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes victim protection and supports the successful reintegration of offenders into society.