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There’s No ‘Get Out of Jail’ Pass

Many law enforcement officials, including judges, have been doing what they can — consistent with public safety — to reduce jail and prison populations. Given what we have seen of COVID-19, that is wise.

Belmont County Western Division Judge Eric Costine said he released eight people from jail. They were inmates who had not been convicted of violent crimes and whose sentences had been nearly completed.

But Costine has required reviews of their situations, for which two of those released failed to appear. He issued warrants for their arrest, noting “They could actually do more time when they finally come back in and see me…”

Good. COVID-19 is not a “get out of jail free” card. Any inmate released early should be punished if he or she fails to comply with a judge’s rules.

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