Changes are being made to Nebraska’s furlough program in the aftermath of an officer-involved shooting in Omaha.
Jermaine Lucas was shot and killed almost two weeks ago. At the time, he was out of prison on a 48-hour furlough. Police say he was reaching for a gun when officers opened fire. The incident has caused state and local leaders to take a closer look at furlough procedures.
Starting November 1st, prisoners must be within one year of their likely parole date before they can take an overnight furlough. Lucas was three years away from being released.
Additionally, inmates will be required to spend their furlough finding work or housing, obtaining substance abuse treatment, mental health services or building stronger family relationships.
