A police operation targeting petty crime and street vendors in a disadvantaged suburb near Paris in preparation for the 2024 Olympics is exacerbating severe overcrowding in Villepinte prison. The prison, situated close to an Olympic venue, is currently at nearly double its capacity, with over 1,000 inmates in facilities designed for half that number.

Officials are struggling to reduce the inmate population before the Games due to the pressure to enforce stricter measures against minor offenses. Last year, judges significantly increased early releases from Villepinte and another prison to alleviate overcrowding. However, despite efforts to transfer inmates to other facilities and expand the prison, Villepinte remains severely overcrowded.

The crackdown on street crime has drawn criticism from legal experts who argue that harsh penalties disproportionately affect marginalized populations like immigrants and the homeless. Police have intensified their operations ahead of the Olympics, targeting activities such as unlicensed street vending, resulting in numerous arrests and deportation orders.

Villepinte's inmate population reflects the diverse demographics of its surrounding area, with a significant proportion of foreign nationals. This mirrors broader trends in French prisons, where foreigners are overrepresented compared to the general population.

The broader context reveals France's struggle with prison overcrowding, exacerbated by an increase in fast-track trials, which often result in prison sentences. This situation poses challenges for inmate rehabilitation and reintegration.

Furthermore, social services supporting former prisoners are facing disruptions during the Olympics, with closures of car wash businesses employing ex-detainees. Efforts to engage with Games organizers for alternative employment opportunities have yet to yield results, leaving former inmates without work options during this period.