California to Release Up to 60,000 State Prisoners

Dramatic overcrowding in California’s state prisons has made it necessary for lawmakers to release 40,000 to 60,000 inmates. The poor living conditions, which include a lack of mental and physical health care, have led to several deaths- many by suicide. Such living conditions are considered unconstitutional, so the prisoners must be released.

Officials say that there is no cause for alarm in the general public. They are ensuring that non-dangerous criminals are released and say that no harm will come because of this decision.

Studies have shown that California’s 33 prisons are all filled to over twice their legal capacity. Judges have ruled that the capacities must come down to about 120 to 145 percent of what the prisons should actually be able to hold. Unfortunately, the state does not have the financial ability to pay for new jails, so lawmakers must find ways to let some of the old prisoners go on probation.

For more information about the effects that this decision may have on your family or on your community, speak with a legal expert today.