Prison Nears Capacity Amid Rising Inmate Numbers
- markdarrenwilkinso
- Aug 11
- 1 min read
Rising Inmate Numbers Put Pressure on Jersey’s Prison Capacity
Jersey’s La Moye Prison is warning that future space for inmates could be tight as prisoner numbers continue to climb.
Figures from the prison service’s annual report show the daily average population rose from 138 in 2023 to 155 in 2024. In December, occupancy peaked at 176 prisoners — 88% of the facility’s 200-bed capacity. Officials say the rise stems from more inmates arriving than leaving over recent years.
The strain is most acute in the vulnerable prisoner unit, which holds up to 59 people. By November, the unit was at full capacity, prompting the addition of four extra beds.
Longer sentences are also slowing turnover, meaning population pressure is likely to persist.
While 91% of inmates had some form of housing lined up after release, the report highlighted a shortage of suitable homes. Rising rents and deposit costs are compounding the problem, with nearly half of post-release placements being temporary or short-term.
