california prison population

It was recently reported that 260 inmates were released from San Diego County jails. The releases took place after a new statewide law went into effect. The law changed how sentence reductions are calculated for inmates’ good behavior and other opportunities that allow for early release. The county looked at the status of some 1,600 inmates and found that 260 of them were non-violent offenders and qualified for immediate release.

The goal of the new law is to help reduce the California prison population. The state hopes to reduce the population by 6,500 this year and has an overall goal to release 40,000 total. The 6,500 reduction should save the state $100 million in costs, ease overcrowding, and decrease health care costs for inmates.

Those who support the new law see it as a “win-win situation.” They feel that the law will ultimately reduce crime by allowing agents to focus on more dangerous convicts. Those who oppose the law say that it is a threat to public safety and want to give law enforcement more say when it comes to the early release of an inmate. California State Assembly members Ted Lieu and Alyson Huber are introducing a bill that would allow for this intervention by law enforcement.

If you are wondering how this new law might affect you or a loved one, contact our San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Wallin and Klarich today. Our San Diego criminal defense attorneys will take a close look at your case and offer you the best legal advice and counsel. We have over 30 years of experience successfully handling these matters. Call 1-877-230-1529 today to speak to one of Wallin & Klarich’s aggressive and experienced criminal defense attorneys in California or visit us at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.