Amid COVID-19, California releases some inmates doing time for murder. Advocates push to free more

Activists call for prisoner release at a news conference by Gov. In a statement, corrections officials said that the 6,500 inmates identified as medically high-risk for COVID-19 were only “eligible for consideration” for release and would be evaluated “based upon public safety and public health considerations.” “We take these decisions very seriously and continue to work with our law enforcement, public health, and community-based partners to address their concerns and work through this public health emergency together,” it said. “We have to get them out of there.” Condemned inmates are not eligible for COVID-19 emergency release, while those serving life sentences without possibility of parole can be freed only if the governor grants clemency. “I would have a chance to regain my dignity.” While Rasul awaits word on her clemency bid, prosecutors in Yolo County denounced the state’s decision to release Williams and another inmate convicted of unrelated violent crimes, with little advance notice and almost no explanation. “There is no reason for failing to listen to the family of a victim who suffered truly horrifically.” Corrections officials said Williams was released for medical reasons but would not provide details about her condition.