Suspended prison sentences in Russia

This chapter explores how suspended prison sentences function in modern Russian criminal law. Unlike some countries, Russia uses a single model that combines sentence suspension with supervision. The chapter reviews relevant legislation, enforcement grounds, supervision conditions, and procedures for revocation. Sentencing data shows a significant rise in suspended sentences after the USSR&s;s collapse, reaching over half of all sentences. However, since the 2000s – and especially the 2010s – their use declined as alternatives like fines and compulsory work became more common. Today, about one-third of convictions result in suspended sentences. While alternatives are mainly used for minor offences, suspended sentences still apply to more serious crimes. This dual trend in penal policy serves two purposes: it helps reduce incarceration by limiting revocations and enhances judicial independence by allowing judges more discretion, particularly in cases where penalties are disproportionately severe.