A major controversy has erupted in France after a convicted drug trafficker, considered a key figure in a Parisian drug network, was granted a day's release from a high-security prison to meet a potential employer, traveling entirely unescorted.
The Controversial Release
Early on Monday morning, several vehicles were seen departing from the supermax prison in Vendin-le-Vieil, a town in northern France. The inmate, identified by union sources as Ouaihid Ben Faiza, was allowed to travel without any prison guards. According to his lawyer, Marie Violleau, someone from his entourage picked him up, and he was expected to take a train to the city of Lyon for the employment meeting.
The French Justice Ministry confirmed the event late on Tuesday, stating that the prisoner had returned safely to his cell by the 9:00 PM deadline and that no incidents were reported during his temporary leave.
A History of Escape and Public Outcry
The decision to grant Ben Faiza leave has fueled significant public anger, particularly given his criminal history. Ben Faiza is not only a central figure in a major drug trafficking network in the Parisian suburbs but also has a prior escape on his record. In 2014, he escaped from custody during a hospital visit with the help of an armed commando and remained at large for two weeks.
Adding to the controversy, this day release was approved against the explicit advice of the public prosecutor. David Lacroix of the FO Justice union confirmed the unescorted nature of the trip to AFP, highlighting the perceived risk. Ben Faiza's scheduled release from prison is set for 2029.
Debate Over Prisoner Reintegration
While the move has been widely criticized, his lawyer, Marie Violleau, defended the decision. She argued that the purpose of the leave was to "prepare, strengthen and reinforce his reintegration" into society by allowing him to secure future employment prospects.
This incident has sparked a fierce debate in France, pitting the principles of prisoner rehabilitation and reintegration against concerns for public safety and the integrity of the justice system, especially when dealing with high-risk inmates.
