Early release

As part of an effort to address soaring prison costs, lawmakers are considering Assembly Bill 510, which would accelerate good-time credits for some inmates to alleviate overcrowding.

Some police organizations and victims rights groups argued against the measure on Tuesday, but Nevada’s highest-ranking judge said their concerns are misplaced.

The bill "contemplates a careful, responsible review of inmates who would be appropriate for review, and later supervision outside of the prison setting, who have earned the right to seek early parole release," said James Hardesty, chief justice of the Nevada Supreme Court.

OK. But it’s understandable that victims of serious crime and some law enforcement officials are wary of this proposal.

Clearing our jails of nonviolent offenders must be a vital aspect of any effort to get a handle on prison spending — and early release programs that lead to parole or residential confinement can be a part of that effort. But the key word is "nonviolent."

In fact, though, AB510 as written could lead to the early release of prisoners who have been convicted of felonies involving violent force.

Chief Justice Hardesty and supporters of this legislation insist that officials will review each case thoroughly to ensure Nevada doesn’t experience its own Willie Horton tragedy.

If this bill passes in its current form, they’d better deliver on that promise.