THE number of people in Scotland’s prisons has hit a record high despite the government’s early release schemes, figures showed today.

The Scottish Prison Service data showed that there were 8,430 people behind bars on Tuesday, 10 more than the previous high of 8,420 and 625 more than the prison estate’s operating capacity. The total remained above 8,400 for the whole week.

The service’s chief executive Teresa Medhurst said that staff have been dealing with “an extremely complex and far-too-high population for almost two years.

“The level of overcrowding in our establishments was already restricting our staff’s ability to build relationships, support rehabilitation, reduce reoffending and help to build safer communities across Scotland.

“Now it is reaching a level that raises very serious concerns around our ability to keep people safe and secure.”

The Scottish government released prisoners early last summer and earlier this year. It announced another early release scheme earlier this month.