Watch CBS News

Federal Panel Extends Deadline For California To Reduce Prison Population

SACRAMENTO (CBS/AP) -- Federal judges have agreed to extend an end-of-year deadline for reducing California's prison population in hopes of finding a long-term solution to an overcrowding crisis.

The ruling Tuesday also granted at least a temporary victory to Gov. Jerry Brown on the issue,

Brown had been fighting against an early release of inmates to comply with the federal court's order, saying it jeopardized public safety.

On Tuesday, a panel of three federal judges granted a delay until Jan. 27 but said all parties must meet with a separate judge, who will make recommendations to the panel by mid-October.

In their order, the three judges say they want to ensure a durable solution to the prison crowding problem.

They want the state and attorneys representing inmates to examine Three Strikes inmates and elderly and infirmed prisoners among others.

 

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

 

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.