The state, prosecutors at odds over releasing inmates due to COVID-19 fears

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy's office released the names of 168 prisoners who were issued parole and listed on waivers for optional early release due to the pandemic.

Some of the convictions include armed robbery, child sex abuse and murder.

The Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) sent out waivers to prosecutors across the state.

In the waivers it says, "According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), incarcerated persons are at a heightened risk for rapid transmission of coronavirus."

MDOC is requesting prosecutors consider waiving the 28-day notice of parole requirement. It would allow the state to expedite the release of an inmate to avoid exposure of the coronavirus.

The state claims these cases do not have registered victims with MDOC. Worthy said her office has contacted some of the victims in the waivers sent to her office.

"We have a moral responsibility, an ethical responsibility, a just responsibility to notify this victims these defendants are getting out," Worthy said.

The state has sent 772 waivers thus far. APproximately 309 were granted by prosecutors and 148 were denied.

If you've been a victim of a reported crime, you can contact Wayne County's Victim Services Unit to register here .

2020 May 5 - MDOC - FOA Att... by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd

2020 May 5 - MDOC Prisoner ... by WXYZ-TV Channel 7 Detroit on Scribd

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