Inmates released because of overcrowding

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Twenty-five inmates charged with misdemeanor crimes have been released from Pinellas County's overcrowded jail.

They were the first group set free after a court order empowered Sheriff Jim Coats to release inmates accused of misdemeanors and local ordinance violations to reduce overcrowding.

Offenses of those released include driving under the influence, battery, criminal mischief, prostitution and drug possession.

The St. Petersburg Times reports that Pinellas-Pasco Circuit Chief Judge David Demers issued the authorization last week.

The jail's population had been hovering around 3,600 — which is 1,100 more than it was originally designed for.

If releasing inmates charged with misdemeanors doesn't reduce the population enough, the sheriff can ask the court to free people accused of nonviolent felonies.