An inmate who received a compassionate release from a Tampa jail amid the coronavirus pandemic committed murder hours later.
Thousands of “non-violent” inmates were released from jails and prisons around the country as part of the federal compassionate release program spearheaded by Attorney General William Barr.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Offices says Joseph Williams was among 150 inmates released from the Hillsborough County jail due to the coronavirus, according to WFLA.
Williams was previously arrested for possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia. His charges made him eligible for compassionate release.
But 24 hours after he was released, Williams, 26, was re-arrested and charged with second-degree murder.
Williams reportedly shot a man near 81st Street South and Ash Avenue just hours after winning his freedom.
“There is no question Joseph Williams took advantage of this health emergency to commit crimes while he was out of jail awaiting resolution of a low-level, non-violent offense,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “As a result, I call on the State Attorney to prosecute this defendant to the fullest extent of the law.”
Williams’ bond was set at $250,000, according to WFLA.
