The number of prisoners in France reached a new record on 1Ahem October, with 79,631 people imprisoned compared to 78,969 the previous month, according to figures from the Ministry of Justice, consulted on October 30. In one year, almost 5,300 more people are imprisoned in French prisons, which suffer from chronic overcrowding.
at 1Ahem In October, French prisons had 62,279 operational places and a prison density set at 127.9%. The density reaches 155% in pretrial detention centers, where those detained awaiting trial and, therefore, presumed innocent, and those sentenced to short sentences are imprisoned. It reaches or exceeds 200% in fourteen establishments or districts.
According to figures from the Ministry of Justice, 3,810 detainees are forced to sleep on a mattress on the floor compared to 2,480 in 1Ahem October 2023. Among those imprisoned, 21,049 are accused, detained pending a final sentence.
Among the bad students of Europe
In total, 95,712 people were detained at 1Ahem October. Among them, there are 16,081 non-detainees placed under an electronic bracelet or placed outside.
France is among the countries in Europe with the worst results in terms of prison overcrowding, in third position behind Cyprus and Romania, according to a study published in June by the Council of Europe.
However, measures have been taken to try to remedy this problem, such as the prohibition of prison sentences of less than one month, the adjustment of sentences and the development of community service. But these are insufficient.
