(Westville, IN) - Loved ones of Westville prison inmates concerned about COVID-19 protested Tuesday. As many as 70 vehicles were in the drive-by protest. 

Protesters alleged inmates were mistreated even before the COVID-19 outbreak and feel non-violent offenders nearing the end of their sentences should be released to serve the balance of their time on home detention or probation to avoid the health risk.

Officials disputed claims of mistreatment saying masks are available for each inmate and restrictions were lifted on communicating with family members. More than 140 inmates have tested positive for coronavirus along with at least 15 staff members, officials said.