An anti-crime group filed suit in San Diego today to stop the release of California inmates. This is the second attempt by the group to get a district judge to consider its case.
The group called Crime Victims United of California is suing the state to overturn a law that was meant to save money and reduce prison overcrowding. This year the State Legislature gave prisoners more opportunities to earn parole. It also made many more non-violent offenders eligible for parole that can't be revoked.
Advocates gathered at the San Diego courthouse to protest the legislation, which they say is unconstitutional. Republican assemblyman Nathan Fletcher spoke in support of the lawsuit.
"Budget problems are never the reason for government to abdicate their primary responsibility, which is public safety," said Fletcher.
A spokesman for the state corrections department said the law, which took effect in January, is constitutional. A similar lawsuit by the same group was thrown out in Placer County.
