22nd August 1999 • The Wizarding World's Beguiling Broadsheet of Choice • 5 κ
FREEDOM FOR FORMER FIEND
By H. Mueller
In an incredibly controversial decision the Wizengamot have anounced approval for an appeal to dismiss the prison sentence against Lucius Malfoy. The decision was made based on an appeal registered by the Auror Office claiming that Malfoy had shown significant rehabilitation and had aided in the capture of known dangerous Death Eaters.
Lucius Malfoy was arrested shortly after the events of the Battle of Hogwarts in 1998 and charged with wilfully participating in the subjugation of Muggleborn witches and wizards and in aiding dark forces. He was sentenced to life imprisonment in Azkaban.
Malfoy was one of the many escapees in a large attack on Azkaban last year that resulted in the deaths of many DMLE guards. The appeal registered by the Auror office claims that 'while Malfoy did leave his cell, every witch and wizard has a fundamental desire to be free and he has endeavoured to make amends for his crimes since leaving the prison.'
Malfoy will be placed under a probation sentence which involves weekly check ins with the Auror office to ensure no illegal activity of any kind.
Regardless of the policies invoked, the decision has been met with widespread criticism and outspoken groups have warned of protests later in the week at the Ministry for Magic.
"I won't feel safe sleeping in my bed whilst that man is out there," said a representative of the opposing groups, "I wouldn't put it past him to try and take over just like You-Know-Who did. He's got that look about him! Mark my words!"
A small minority have expressed approval of the Wizengamot's decision, stating "in order to be better than those we despise we must show mercy where they would not and reward as well as punish the actions of our neighbours."