Kern County law enforcement leaders are speaking out against a measure that would release some felons early.

Proposition 57 would reduce sentences for people convicted of some violent crimes like rape, but at a news conference in Bakersfield on Thursday, Sheriff Donny Youngblood said it would only create more victims. District Attorney Lisa Green also voiced concern that funding rehabilitation programs for hardened criminals wouldn’t work.

Supporters argue Prop 57 helps state prison overcrowding and gives people a second chance.

Kelli Forsch