Md. Man Among Thousands Being Released From Jail Early

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- Maryland prisoners will be among the 6,000 federal prisoners being released from jail early as part of the sentencing reform plan.

One Baltimore-area man shares the story about his release with WJZ's Marcus Washington.

In an effort to relieve overcrowded prisons across the country and correct harsh sentencing laws for nonviolent drug offenders, 6,000 federal prisoners are being released early.

Convicted drug dealer Greg Nelson, 58, of Maryland, is one of those released, heading home after years in prison and months in a halfway house.

"They introduce you back into society, but they do it slowly," said Nelson.

He was set for release in 2016, but his sentence on federal conspiracy and distribution of heroin charges was cut short.

"I was a functioning addict," he said.

Some people question if the release of thousands of prisoners will increase crime--especially in a city like Baltimore--already dealing with record homicides this year.

But a study by the U.S. Sentencing Commission shows inmates released early were less likely to re-offend, compared to those who served full term.

A justice official says judges examined every case and 26 percent of the petitions for early release were denied.

"Lots of them have no violence associated with the crimes for which they were convicted. They made bad decisions, and they deserve a second chance," said Caroline Platt, federal public defender.

Out of the 6,000 prisoners being released, Texas is releasing the largest number of prisoners, followed by Florida, Illinois and California.

"If given different opportunities, a different vision of life, could be thriving the way we are," President Obama said.

The hope for Nelson and many others.

"I'm thankful just to be out," he said.

All prisoners released will be under mandatory supervision. An additional 40,000 prisoners are eligible for early release in the coming months.