By Jessika Harkay
Hartford Courant
HARTFORD, Conn. — The number of incarcerated inmates in Connecticut has reached its lowest point in more than 30 years, the Department of Correction announced Monday afternoon.
The population was at an all-time high with nearly 20,000 inmates in early February 2008. It stood at around 12,000 this time last year.
For the first time since April 1990, the number has now dropped below 9,000, officials said.
“To have over 3,400 fewer individuals under our supervision in a little more than one year’s time is incredible, and speaks to the remarkable work of the staff of this agency,” DOC Commissioner Angel Quiros said. “Although the population numbers have dropped significantly, this was accomplished in a methodical and responsible manner. We remain committed to the release of eligible individuals back into the community, and working collaboratively with stakeholders to improve the chances for successful reentry.”
The Department of Correction plans to close three facilities by July 2022 because of the declining numbers, including the supermax Northern Correctional Institution this July.
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