This commutation brings in revenue, but even more importantly, helps to reduce prison overcrowding.
Commutation is only an option in sentences of up to five years.
It is also only available for first time offenders. In most cases, the fine is equivalent to ten lempiras for each day of the sentence, or Lps. 3,650 per year. Time already served is discounted at a rate of ten lempiras a day, and some inmates serve a combination of prison time and a fine. This option of buying out prison terms of up to five years is taken into consideration when legislators create criminal laws and penalties.