Whether or not jail inmates should be released to try to slow the spread of COVID-19 will continue to be a county-level decision. In a joint letter from all three branches of Indiana government Friday, state officials said, “No Indiana-size solution would fit all,” and that any decisions must be made by local judges, sheriffs, and county leaders.
The letter acknowledges that having inmates, juveniles, staff, and service providers living and working in confined space could increase the potential for the disease to get in a facility and spread. State officials also note that county sheriffs may have limited resources and ability to treat and quarantine those who get infected.
Counties considering releasing juveniles and inmates are encouraged to do it “in a responsible and humane manner.” They’re asked to identify those who are nonviolent, pose a low risk, and may be safely released into the community under pretrial, probation, or community correction supervision.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana had petitioned the Indiana Supreme Court this week to take emergency steps to protect inmates who are at a high risk of dying from COVID-19.
