Summary
A doorbell camera captured an incident of domestic violence involving Hayley Johns and her former partner, Matthew Kowal. Kowal was convicted of causing bodily harm and assault, was released early due to prison overcrowding, but later returned for breaking a no-contact order. The UK government plans to release more inmates to ease prison crowding, sparking concerns about victim safety.
Key Facts
- Hayley Johns experienced domestic violence from her ex-partner over several years.
- Matthew Kowal was convicted of actual bodily harm and assault.
- Kowal was released early from prison under a scheme to reduce overcrowding but returned after breaking a no-contact order.
- The UK government plans to release over 1,000 inmates after 28 days to free up prison space.
- The new release policy will not apply to the most serious offenders.
- Some victims are worried about how the policy could threaten their safety.
- The Ministry of Justice stated more prison spaces are needed by November to avoid shortages.
- Support resources for domestic abuse victims are available through BBC Action Line.
