U.S. judge orders Fulton County to ease jail crowding

ATLANTA - A federal judge ordered Fulton County Wednesday to release some jail inmates held on minor charges to relieve overcrowding. <br> <br> U.S. District Judge Marvin Shoob ruled after two days of testimony in a lawsuit brought by HIV-positive inmates. A medical expert testified that chronic overcrowding contributes to the spread of communicable diseases to inmates with diminished immune systems. <br> <br> Shoob said an estimated 80 inmates held on misdemeanor charges ``should be released immediately.&#39;&#39; Offenses such as MARTA fare evasion, public drunkenness or criminal trespass normally result in a couple days&#39; detention, but some prisoners are held for weeks before seeing a judge. <br> <br> The jail was designed to house 1,700, but this week its population was about 2,200, Sheriff Jackie Barrett said. <br> <br> Fulton State Court Chief Judge A.L. Thompson was already reviewing cases Wednesday afternoon. ``We&#39;re considering those defendants who are suitable for release,&#39;&#39; Court Clerk Stephanie Searcy said. <br> <br> Atlanta lawyer Stephen Bright, who represents the HIV-positive inmates, said Shoob&#39;s order will save the county money and improve medical conditions.