Costa Rica's President Eliminates by Decree Benefits That Reduce Prison Time

In a decisive move signaling a hardline approach to crime, Costa Rican President Laura Fernández has enacted a new regulation that eliminates "prison benefits" which previously shortened the time inmates served. This decree, signed just after her inauguration, ensures that a year in prison will now consistently be 360 natural days, a clear departure from previous interpretations that allowed for shorter sentences.

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With this, there will be no doubt that the prison year is 360 natural days, no more leniency that the prison year is eight months.

President Fernández articulated her administration's zero-tolerance policy towards organized crime and drug trafficking, stating, "We don't want organized crime or drug trafficking in Costa Rica. Therefore, from this moment on, the prison year will be 360 natural days." This policy aims to provide greater certainty in sentencing and send a strong message to those who threaten public safety.

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I warned you, we don't want organized crime or drug trafficking in Costa Rica. Therefore, from this moment on, the prison year will be 360 natural days.

Beyond this regulatory change, Fernández's government is set to implement further measures to bolster security. Plans are underway to construct a "mega prison" capable of holding 5,000 inmates, drawing inspiration from El Salvador's security model. Additionally, a Command and Control Center (C5) will be established to enhance the fight against organized crime. These initiatives underscore the new administration's commitment to a comprehensive strategy focused on public security and the eradication of criminal elements from Costa Rican society.

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Judges will not have room to interpret the sentence in fewer days per year for those who take away our peace and steal our security.