According to a NowThis media video published by the Huffington Post, and this article by NBC News, the largest ever one-time release of federal prisoners will occur this Friday–Monday, October 30–November 2. All of those who will be released have been convicted of drug offenses.
This is happening because the U.S. Sentencing Commission changed sentencing guidelines for drug crimes last year, and finally they are now being put into effect. The changes in the guidelines allowed thousands of prisoners’ sentences to be reduced, allowing many to be released ahead of time.
Over 6,000 federal inmates will be released during these 3 days. Most inmates who have applies for retroactive sentencing will have their sentences reduced by about 23 months, which lowers the average sentence for drug offenders from 131 months to 108 months.
Progressive steps to makes sentences more reasonable
This development follows a trend that we’ve seen throughout the nation and particularly here in California, with the passage of Proposition 47. Sentences are becoming less harsh, there’s a renewed focus on rehabilitation measures, and there’s a reluctance to continue spending so many taxpayer dollars on locking up nonviolent prisoners. Just one federal inmate costs American taxpayers about $21,000 per year, and the U.S. incarcerates a much larger percentage of its population than any other developed country.
People want to see prisoners being rehabilitated and integrated back into society, not just harshly condemned for the rest of their lives. Even President Obama has taken a stand on this issue, condemning harsh sentencing practices and inspiring Americans to take another look at and strive to improve the current criminal justice system approach.
What do you think of this mass release?
This momentous release has spurred plenty of debate among politicians, the general public, and everyone who works and has been effected by the criminal justice system in this country. What do you think of it? Do you think it’s a positive step in the right direction, or a risky move to allow these people who have been convicted of drug crimes back into society?
If you or a loved one has spent any time behind bars—or has a current criminal case pending that might put him or her in jail—you know that sending people to jail isn’t always the best solution. The “lock ‘em up and throw away the key” mentality just doesn’t fly anymore—and the government is finally responding to this by reducing sentences.
Take advantage today
One thing is for sure, if you’re dealing with a criminal case right now, you’ll want to capitalize on this trend of less-harsh sentencing as much as possible. The best way to do this is by hiring Southern California’s best criminal defense lawyer, Torrence L. Howell. Call 909-920-0908 or email torrence@torrencelhowelllaw.com to schedule a complimentary consultation with him today.
