Fewer criminals will be put behind bars and more will serve sentences in the community under plans to end overcrowding in jails.Violent criminals and sexual offenders could be released from prison earlier, while judges could be given more flexibility to impose punishments such as football or driving bans.

Fewer criminals will be put behind bars and more will serve sentences in the community under plans to end overcrowding in jails.Violent criminals and sexual offenders could be released from prison earlier, while judges could be given more flexibility to impose punishments such as football or driving bans.