The new Minister of Justice Eric Dupond-Moretti welcomed Tuesday the " historically low " occupancy rates at the Fresnes prison (Val-de-Marne), chosen for his first trip, and said he wanted to " continue " on this path.
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Upon arrival of the former criminal lawyer, known for its many acquittals, prisoners shouted " acquittator " and " just defend ourselves ," said a journalist from AFP. After a visit of about 45 minutes, Eric Dupond-Moretti said he was " concerned about freedom, about the conditions of detention, about the working conditions of prison staff ".
" Passive but attentive witness " of a meeting between prisoners and prison staff, the Minister of Justice heard them say " the same thing: fewer prisoners, a little less discomfort and better working conditions for prison staff " . " This is something to think about, " said the minister in a brief statement to the press.
One of the most dilapidated prisons in France
Fresnes prison is one of the most dilapidated in France and was one of the most overcrowded before the Covid-19 epidemic which allowed many detainees to be released in advance.
As of January 1, prison density was 142%. The remand center currently has 1,679 prisoners for 1,603 places, an occupancy rate of 115%. “ There are obviously conditions of detention which remain very difficult. Anyone who thinks that the prison is three stars is completely wrong, and they should be silent, "said the Minister of Justice. " We are in occupancy rates here which are historically low and it is undoubtedly the way which it is necessary to pursue, in any case it is my conviction ", concluded Eric Dupond-Moretti.