The government has accepted a proposal in principle to end the option of not paying a fine, and going to prison instead.
It’s called an ‘alternative custodial’ sentence.
But a member of parliament, Jessica Jaccoud, has tabled a motion to abolish the option for fines under CHF 5,000.
Currently, those unable to pay a fine make up over 40% of new prison admissions – when the prisons are already overcrowded.
It’s suggested a fine should be collected in the way of any normal debt, if it’s unpaid.
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