Alternative Sentences: What the Law Provides

HIBAPRESS-RABAT

After months and months of preparation and uninterrupted debates within the government, the Ministry of Justice had finally delivered the text relating to alternative sentences which were adopted by the Executive. We have waited far too long for this Law which constitutes the essential part of the reform of the Penal Code.

It can therefore put an end to preventive detention which, according to several reports, including that of the Public Prosecutor’s Office, generally contributes to the phenomenon of prison overcrowding.

The law aims to reduce detention by replacing it with alternative sentences to imprisonment. They will apply to short prison sentences, i.e. those of less than five years, knowing that alternative sentences are not applicable in the event of a repeat offence.

Regarding the cases of application of alternative penalties, judges cannot resort to them when it comes to offences or crimes against state security, terrorist acts, embezzlement and squandering of public funds, abuse of power and corruption.

It is therefore prohibited to apply alternative penalties in cases of money laundering, drug and narcotics trafficking and sexual exploitation of minors and disabled persons.