In response to overcrowding in Scottish prisons, over 500 inmates serving short sentences will be released early in tranches over the next few weeks, excluding those convicted of sexual or domestic abuse offenses. The emergency release plan aims to alleviate pressure on prisons that have seen a significant increase in the inmate population. The decision, approved by the Scottish Parliament, involves careful vetting by prison governors to exclude high-risk individuals. Concerns have been raised by victim support organizations about potential risks of reoffending and the impact on public safety amidst the release of prisoners.