Munich (dpa / lby) - The Bavarian Ministry of Justice is launching a new program with which so-called substitute prison sentences are to be avoided. As of September, the "Outreach Social Work" project is intended to prevent those sentenced to a fine who cannot or do not want to pay from being arrested, as the ministry announced on Wednesday. Court assistance staff should make personal contact with the convicted person and advise them on alternatives.
The court help can submit proposals for installment payments or establish contact with so-called detention avoidance programs. Since 2005, convicts have been able to serve their fines with the "Sweat instead of sit" program through community service. There has also been a program for the past three years in which placement agencies provide assistance in drawing up installment plans.
Minister of Justice Georg Eisenreich explained that the new program aims to "offer people targeted professional help". In addition, prisons would be relieved by the measures.
