State prison officials say they've started the release of some nonviolent offenders as they work to contain the spread of COVID-19.
Last week the state released six offenders who were considered to be at high risk if they contracted the virus. All were female and either pregnant or at least 65 years old.
“The department has been reviewing all options to protect public safety as well as our employees and those in the state's custody,” Public Safety Secretary Erik Hooks says. “Many of those options were implemented quickly, providing immediate impact, while others have required more preparation.”
Another roughly 500 offenders convicted of nonviolent crimes are being considered for early release. They must meet criteria such as having an underlying health condition that could put them at risk. Others are already on work release and scheduled to complete their sentences this year.
Those released would still be under state supervision by corrections officers in their communities.
The state began introducing steps last month to limit the spread of the virus in the state's prison facilities. Even with those measures in place, more than 35 inmates and 20 staff members across the state have tested positive for COVID-19.
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