- Enjoying the serene charm in Rothenfeld.
The head honcho of Landsberg am Lech's penitentiary, Monika Groß, spilled the beans about the daily grind at her joint with the journalists from "Munich Merkur" and "TZ" (Monday). "It's quite the sight. Lots of space, greenery, and critters tended to by the inmates," Groß commented on the Rothenfeld sector of Landsberg's Justice Custody Institution.
"We've got four goats, 873 chickens, a feline friend, a couple of cows, and eight young ones," the prison boss shared. At present, 27 of the 100 cells in Rothenfeld are filled up. "The vibe in Rothenfeld is fantastic," Groß told the paper. "Much more laid-back."
Convicts from Landsberg's Justice Custody Institution start their journey to the more relaxed routine in Rothenfeld as early as three months pre-release date and at the earliest 18 months before their freedom, according to the director. Currently, the famous chef Alfons Schuhbeck is among the notable residents, but he's not getting any special treatment. "No one gets a free pass because of their fame," Groß clarified. Some inmates miss out on Rothenfeld due to incompatibility with the system. "It also depends on the nature of the crime and predictions for future misconduct."
Groß painted a picture of the psychological impact on inmates as "immense." However, transformation for the better is also possible once released. "Once, an inmate who obtained his degree in Landsberg told me, 'I should have been locked up sooner. Then, my life would have taken a turn for the better.' I found that incredible," Groß shared. Others are simply grateful to have left a harsh environment behind.
The convicts who are eligible for the more relaxed routine in Rothenfeld may appeal to the Court of Justice for consideration. After serving time in Rothenfeld, some inmates face challenges in reintegrating into society due to the stigma associated with their past crimes, despite their improved behavior.
