Las Vegas NowSome 170 Inmates Released Too Early

Some 170 Inmates Released Too Early

Very serious questions about the release of certain Nevada prisoners have surfaced. More than 170 criminals -- who have not served their full sentences -- are roaming free. Eyewitness News is also investigating why these prisoners were let go early against a parole board's decision.

There is quarreling and major disagreements between the state prison system and the Department of Parole and Probation. The head of the parole board alleges some inmates are being released too soon, some, even against the parole board's advice. The state's highest officials are now taking notice and investigating the claims.

On Sept. 10, 1995, 50-year-old Mike Hastings was killed by a drunk driver. His wife, Jenny Hastings describes, "It was one of the worst days of my life. Yes, it was. Just out of the blue, when you get a call like that and it changes your whole life in a matter of minutes."

Wife, Jenny, will never forget that fateful day. James Yach was arrested at the scene and sentenced to 5 -20 years in prison. But now, after serving 8.5 years, he is a free man.

Jenny Hastings said, "I'm appalled, just absolutely appalled."

State Prison Director Jackie Crawford released Yach after giving credits to his sentence for good behavior even though the state parole board denied his release in February. Crawford allegedly did the same to more than 170 other inmates in recent months.

Hastings continued, "The parole board has said they shouldn't receive parole, they should be doing their time and yet the prisons let them out. I don't understand that."

And neither does Governor Kenny Guinn who is now launching an independent audit to see if Crawford broke the law releasing the inmates too soon.

Greg Bortolin, Governor Guinn's spokesman, said, "These are very serious allegations, however, we are just talking about generalities at this point."

Speaking to Eyewitness News by phone, Guinn's spokesman, Greg Bortolin, says this is a top priority for the governor's office. "If these allegations prove true, the governor will move swiftly and take the appropriate action."

But Hastings says the only action she wants is for Yach to be sent back to prison.

The governor's spokesman says Crawford is not allowed to speak with Eyewitness News until the investigation is complete.

If the allegations are proven true, the inmates that still have years on their sentences may be rounded up and put back in prison.

Contact Reporter Atle Erlingsson