Former lawyer and fixer for Donald Trump, Michael Cohen, recently revealed that he was released from prison early due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Cohen, who was serving a three-year sentence for multiple crimes including tax evasion and campaign finance violations, was granted early release as part of efforts to reduce the spread of the virus in correctional facilities.
During his time in prison, Cohen was reportedly concerned about his health and safety amidst the pandemic. He expressed relief at being able to leave prison early and serve the remainder of his sentence under home confinement. Cohen's release highlights the challenges faced by inmates and prison staff during the Covid-19 crisis.
The decision to release Cohen early was likely influenced by concerns over prison overcrowding and the increased risk of Covid-19 transmission in such environments. Many prisons across the country have faced outbreaks of the virus, prompting authorities to take steps to reduce the inmate population and implement safety measures.
Cohen's case also raises questions about the impact of the pandemic on the criminal justice system. With courts facing delays and backlogs due to the health crisis, many inmates have experienced uncertainty and delays in their legal proceedings. The early release of individuals like Cohen reflects a broader trend of efforts to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on the prison system.
As the pandemic continues to affect various aspects of society, including the criminal justice system, the case of Michael Cohen serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by inmates and authorities in ensuring public health and safety in correctional facilities.