Parole in Singapore allows eligible inmates to be released early under specific conditions. It provides a second chance for offenders to reintegrate into society while serving the remainder of their sentence under supervision.
Understanding how parole works, who qualifies, and the conditions can help inmates and their families better prepare for life after incarceration. In this guide, we’ll explain how parole in Singapore is granted, the eligibility criteria, and the steps involved.
What Is Parole In Singapore?
Parole refers to a supervised release granted to inmates before they serve their full sentence. It allows them to reintegrate into the community under certain conditions while being monitored by authorities. The Singapore Prison Service oversees the parole process, ensuring that only suitable candidates who meet the necessary criteria are granted early release.
In Singapore, parole is closely linked to the Conditional Remission Order (CRO). Under the CRO framework, inmates may be granted remission for good behaviour, allowing them to serve the remainder of their sentence under supervision outside prison. However, the release comes with strict conditions, and any breach can result in the revocation of the parole and a return to prison.
The purpose of parole is to encourage rehabilitation by incentivising inmates to display good behaviour and participate in correctional programmes during incarceration. However, parole is not a right—it is granted at the parole board’s discretion.
Eligibility Criteria For Parole Under The Conditional Remission Order (CRO)
The Conditional Remission Order (CRO) framework assesses parole eligibility for parole in Singapore. This framework allows inmates who demonstrate good behaviour and rehabilitation progress to be considered for early release. The key eligibility criteria include:
- Short Sentences: Inmates serving a prison sentence of not more than 14 days are typically eligible for release under the CRO framework, provided they meet other criteria.
- Default Sentences: If an inmate was sentenced by default for paying a fine, they may also qualify for early release under the CRO, subject to compliance with stipulated conditions.
- Enhanced Sentences Due To Prior Breaches: In cases where inmates have previously breached a CRO or committed a serious violation under a Mandatory Aftercare Order (MAO), they may receive an enhanced sentence. The MAO is a post-release programme designed to aid rehabilitation through counselling, curfews, and mandatory drug tests (such as hair or urine tests).
- Serious Offences During Incarceration: If an inmate commits a serious offence while serving their sentence, the President of Singapore may direct the Commissioner of Prisons to postpone or deny the issuance of a CRO.
- Corrective Training And Preventive Detention: Inmates sentenced to corrective training or preventive detention are not eligible for parole under the CRO framework. Instead, they may be released “on licence,” which requires adherence to specific conditions. Breaching these conditions results in immediate re-imprisonment.
- Life Imprisonment Sentences: Inmates serving life sentences are only eligible for parole after completing at least 20 years of their sentence. The Minister of Home Affairs will review their case to determine if they can be granted a CRO. If they are deemed ineligible, their case will be reviewed annually to reassess their eligibility.
Failure to comply with any of the above conditions may result in the revocation of parole and the inmate being sent back to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence. This structured approach ensures that parolees remain committed to rehabilitation while protecting public safety.
How Is Parole Granted Under The Conditional Remission Order (CRO)?
Parole is granted through a structured process overseen by the Singapore Prison Service under the Conditional Remission Order (CRO) framework. The process involves several key steps:
- Initial Assessment: Prison authorities assess inmates’ behaviour, rehabilitation progress, and overall conduct during incarceration.
- Parole Board Review: A parole board, comprising senior officials, reviews the assessment report and decides whether to grant parole based on the inmate’s eligibility and risk factors.
- Setting Conditions: If parole is granted, specific conditions are imposed under the CRO framework. These conditions ensure that the parolee remains compliant and does not pose a risk to society.
- Monitoring And Supervision: Once released, the parolee is strictly supervised by a designated officer who monitors compliance with the conditions.
When And How Is A Conditional Remission Order (CRO) Issued?
A Conditional Remission Order (CRO) is issued to inmates after they have served two-thirds of their total consecutive prison sentence or 14 days, whichever is longer. Consecutive prison sentences apply when an inmate is sentenced for multiple offences, with each sentence running one after the other.
If the inmate’s sentence was enhanced due to breaching a previous CRO or committing a serious violation under a Mandatory Aftercare Order (MAO), the issuance of a new CRO will occur after the inmate completes both the enhanced sentence and two-thirds of the consecutive prison sentence (or 14 days, whichever is later).
It’s important to note that only expected time served in prison counts toward the two-thirds or 14-day requirement. Non-reckonable periods include:
- Time Spent In A Punishment Cell: One-third of any time spent in a punishment cell is deducted.
- Hospitalisation Due To Fault Or Malingering: One-third of any time spent in hospital due to self-inflicted harm or malingering is not counted.
- Forfeited Remission Periods: Any period of remission forfeited due to disciplinary action is excluded unless restored by the Superintendent of Prisons.
- Deferred Remission: If an offence is committed while serving a sentence, the President of Singapore may order a deferment of the remission period.
Seeking Legal Assistance
Navigating the parole process can be complex, and having professional legal support is essential. Experienced criminal lawyers can guide inmates and their families through the parole application process, ensuring all requirements are met.
If you need legal assistance, Tembusu Law has some of the best criminal lawyers in Singapore who can provide expert advice and representation.
Conclusion About Parole In Singapore
Parole in Singapore offers inmates a valuable opportunity to return to society before completing their full sentence. By understanding the eligibility criteria, process, and conditions of parole, inmates and their families can better prepare for this transition.
If you or a loved one is seeking parole, don’t hesitate to contact Tembusu Law for guidance from the best criminal lawyers in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions About Parole In Singapore
How Long Must An Inmate Serve Before Being Eligible For Parole?
An inmate must serve at least two-thirds of their sentence before being considered for parole.
Can Parole Be Revoked?
Yes, parole can be revoked if the parolee fails to comply with the conditions or commits a new offence.
Are All Inmates Eligible For Parole?
No, certain inmates, such as those convicted of serious violent crimes, may not be eligible for parole.
How Can A Lawyer Help With Parole Applications?
A lawyer can guide the inmate and their family through the application process, ensuring all requirements are met and increasing the chances of success.
