As a last-resort measure to ease overcrowding, California sheriffs have been forced to ease inmate sentencing standards for three county detention centers in San Bernardino county. According to San Bernardino County Sheriff Gary Penrod, despite his commitment to community safety, the new measures are necessary to address chronic overcrowding.

The new policy, which went into effect earlier this week, still provides an evaluation of those arrested based on their perceived threat to society. Among the changes in the policy, arrested offenders will be released with a promise to appear in court if their bail amount is less than $500,000. Previously, inmates were only offered this option if their bail was set at $150,000 or less. Anyone arrested for a nonviolent felony can be turned away from the prison as long as their bail remains under $500,000.

Also, anyone arrested for misdemeanor crimes or warrants will be released after processing and evaluation. These changes mean that people arrested on charges, such as possession of narcotics (up to 24 pounds), being under the influence of narcotics, and commercial burglary can be released. Officials maintain that this is only a temporary solution to overcrowding.