Quinn defends early release of prisoners

Gov. Pat Quinn is defending the state's decision to release about 1,000 inmates early because of budget woes.

Quinn says the state is releasing prisoners in a "very prudent manner" and officials are monitoring them.

Inmates with a history of violence toward people are not eligible.

The Chicago Democrat says he wants to be "very cautious" about doling out early releases and he says he won't rush the program.

Earlier this month, the state started releasing some inmates up to a year early because of financial troubles.

The Department of Corrections has said the early releases could save the state $5 million because it costs an average of $5,000 a year to house and care for an inmate.