In a lengthy 185-page opinion released by three federal judges today, they ordered the state to come up with a plan that would deal with 43,000 prisoners over the next two years, reports the LA Times. The order basically sets the pace for releasing prisoners according to media reports but Chief Deputy Atty. Gen. Jim Humes says the state must come up with a plan, not necessarily release prisoners onto the streets. The judges said the overcrowding causes prisoners to commit even more crimes and a few years ago, conditions were so bad, inmates were dying from curable and avoidable diseases, prompting a court-appointed receiver to see reform in the system. The state may appeal the decision. more ›

The results of a recent survey administered in seven public schools in South Los Angeles are downright depressing. Students feel scared, unmotivated, unsupported, and ignored, and it's causing many to experience the symptoms of clinical depression. Administrators and psychologists agree, noting that the multiple killings of youth in the community leaves a pall on the students, and that their choice to skip school because they are "tired, had trouble sleeping, felt helpless or hopeless, were bored or felt lazy" is to be expected. With schools a reflection of a depressive environment, it's no wonder their students are sad. more ›