8 asylum seekers released from Sheridan federal prison

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – The American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon says eight of more than 100 asylum seekers who were locked up by the Trump administration in a federal prison in Oregon have been released.

More detained immigrants are expected to be released on bond in coming days from the prison in Sheridan, northwest of Salem.

Most of the asylum seekers, held at the prison since late May, say they faced risks in their home countries, including India, Nepal, Guatemala, Mexico and China.

The ACLU of Oregon scheduled a news conference for later Wednesday in Portland where five of the men will describe their prison experiences.

Previously, detainees described overcrowded cells with open toilets where they were kept for long periods, and scant meals that violated religious restrictions.