California IN BRIEF : SACRAMENTO : Class-Action Suits Filed for Inmates

Federal class-action suits have been filed by lawyers representing inmates in Yolo and Placer counties, contending that jails in the two counties are overcrowded and violate prisoners’ constitutional rights. Placer County Sheriff Donald Nunes and Yolo County Sheriff Gary Lipelt are named in the suits, filed Thursday in U.S. District Court by the Prisoners Rights Union, a statewide advocacy group. The inmates contend that authorities at both jails have failed to provide enough jail beds, adequate recreation and exercise and clean clothing. They also contend that they have not received sufficient medical, dental and mental health care.