Automatic Release After Two-Thirds of Prison Sentence to End Under New Rules

Prisoners in Antigua and Barbuda will no longer become automatically eligible for unconditional release after serving two-thirds of their sentences under an amendment approved by Cabinet.

The Government has approved changes to Rule 211 of the Prison Rules governing the remission of prison sentences.

Under the existing rule, a prisoner serving more than one month becomes eligible for unconditional release after completing two-thirds of the term, subject to any days forfeited under the Prison Rules.

Under the amended rule, completion of two-thirds of the sentence will instead make the prisoner eligible to be considered for remission.

The Superintendent of Prisons will be required to recommend suitable prisoners to the Governor General before remission can be granted.

Cabinet said the change introduces an additional level of consideration and oversight while preserving remission as an incentive for good conduct, industry and rehabilitation.

The amended rule will also prevent remission where it would result in a person serving fewer than 31 days in prison.

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin presented the matter to Cabinet following recent discussions on sentencing, repeat offending and the mechanisms through which periods of imprisonment can be reduced.

Cabinet was advised that the Prison Rules are subsidiary legislation made under Section 26 of the Prison Act and that the amendment does not require a sitting of Parliament.

The Government has approved the Prison (Amendment) Rules, 2026, authorising the necessary steps to implement the revised arrangements.

Cabinet stressed that remission for good conduct has not been abolished. However, serving two-thirds of a sentence will no longer, by itself, result in unconditional release.