(LaPorte, IN) - The La Porte County Jail has released about 20 offenders

as a precaution against coronavirus.

Sheriff John Boyd says the inmates were all non-violent and

high risk for the virus due to age and pre-existing health concerns.

He says prosecutors and the courts were among those involved in

choosing ones to release, a decision aimed at achieving a balance

for the safety of both the offenders, current inmates and society.

He says the extra space from vacating the offenders also provides

more room for any inmates who have to be quarantined.

One offender showing symptoms is being isolated.

Boyd said he could not disclose if the inmate has been tested for

coronavirus but revealed the offender appeared to be doing well.