Cuba to release 2,900 prisoners

Just in time for the holidays, Cuban President Raul Castro announced on Friday that that the Cuban government will grant amnesty to 2,900 prisoners. Many of the prisoners are over the age of 60, have health issues, or are women or juveniles. Those who have been convicted of serious crimes will not be released, including the American, Alan Gross. President Castro indicated that the move was taken in anticipation of the visit of Pope Benedict XVI in April.

(cgb)