California state prison officials say as many as 17,600 inmates may be released early due to the coronavirus. That's 70% more than previously estimated and a total that victims and police say includes dangerous criminals who should stay locked up. The earlier releases also are causing consternation as probation officers and community organizations scramble to provide housing, transportation and other services for inmates who may pose a public health risk because several hundred have been paroled while still contagious. Officials have been under intense pressure to free more inmates, though officials say Corrections Secretary Ralph Diaz is likely to block some of the earlier releases.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
FILE - In this July 9, 2020, file photo, a correctional officer closes the main gate at San Quentin State Prison in San Quentin, Calif. California state prison officials say in a recent court filing that as many as 17,600 inmates are eligible for release due to the coronavirus, 70% more than previously estimated and a total that victims and police say includes dangerous criminals who should stay locked up. Officials have been under intense pressure from advocates, some state lawmakers and two federal judges to release even more inmates, particularly after a botched transfer of infected inmates led to the state's worst outbreak at San Quentin State Prison. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg, File)
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