Photos as first prisoners leave HMP Leeds on controversial early release scheme
Some prisoners will have served just a third of their sentences
The first prisoners being released under Labour's controversial early release scheme left HMP Leeds this morning.
Hundreds of prisoners are being freed early today (October 1) as the Government tries to free up spaces in overcrowded jails.
About 700 eligible offenders will leave jails across England and Wales on Thursday - with 2,550 are due to be released by the end of the year.
Some prisoners will have served just a third of their sentences, for crimes including domestic abuse and some sexual offences.
Outside HMP Leeds one freed prisoner, wearing trainers and shorts, could be seen leaving with a bag full of possessions.
HMP Leeds is a category B male prison just outside of the city centre.