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| Judges say inmates released despite orders to hold them |
| By Reno Gazette-Journal |
| Published: 12/01/2003 |
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In the last two months, officials at the Washoe County jail have released at least seven inmates - some potentially violent or with violent histories - despite court orders to hold them in custody, according to two district judges. But Washoe County Assistant Sheriff Don Means said the mistaken releases were caused by a change in the computer system, a problem that is being addressed. He said both jail personnel and court clerks were to blame. "It's not an epidemic by any means," he said, adding that the Washoe County Jail counted seven incorrect releases within the last year, not within the last few months, as the judges contend. Three of the released inmates remain free, he said. Washoe District Judge Janet Berry said the jump in cases is significant and recent - within the last 60 days. "I've been on the bench for nine years, and I have never seen anything like this, to see multiple felony inmates released," she said. The unauthorized releases have left residents at risk and have cost taxpayers thousands of dollars, she said. In response, Chief District Judge James W. Hardesty has called a meeting with Means and Sheriff Dennis Balaam to resolve the problem. "I don't know the reason behind these mistaken early releases," Hardesty said, adding he has heard complaints from four district judges. "It's something I'm concerned about and other judges are concerned about." |
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