Tightened rules on parole show results

Using money and personal relations to reduce a prison sentence or gain parole used to be commonplace, but no instance of such behavior has been reported since the authorities rolled out measures last year to fight it.

In March of last year, the Supreme People's Court issued guidelines focusing on transparency for procedures in reducing penalties and approving parole.

Chinese courts are also required to disclose applications and related materials about cutting a sentence or getting parole within five days after they file a case, according to the guidelines.