Probation crisis 'puts public safety at risk'

Dangerous criminals are being left unsupervised because of a cash crisis in London's probation service, unions warn today.

Hundreds of released prisoners have been put at risk of returning to crime after probation offices were shut and secretaries put in charge of their cases.

There are plans to move a centre for victims of crime from central London to Ilford, making it virtually inaccessible for most of the people it is claimed to help.

Today the National Association of Probation Officers said potentially dangerous offenders could avoid jail when recommended for community sentences by overworked- The closure of 23 offices will force offenders to travel further and many will not turn up

Harry Fletcher, assistant general secretary of NAPO, said: "Many offenders are just not being seen." The cuts have been prompted by a £6 million deficit.