Stitt approved more than 450 offenders for commutations to decrease prison overcrowding and reduce the risk of a COVID-19 outbreak. 

 “In these unprecedented times, we must take action while safeguarding our Department of Corrections staff, inmate population and the public,” said Stitt. “We are recommending inmates self-quarantine for a period of 14 days if they’re coming from a facility with a known case.”

Stitt approved the April 16 release of 452 inmates for commutation and 404 approved to “time served.” In March, Stitt approved 349 offenders from the drug possession docket; 22 offenders from the property docket; 361 commuted to time served and 10 commuted to 1 year. In December of 2019, he approved 81 approved for commutation and 43 commuted to time served.