Three people literally got out of jail free because Sheriff Fred Abdalla said he had to make room for three suspected drug dealers.

"This is no scare tactic, this is for real. We've got a problem at the Jefferson County Jail," Abdalla said.

During two drug busts in Steubenville, officers said they netted $7,000 in cash, marijuana, cocaine and several guns. They also arrested three men who are all charged with felony drug possession.

"These young individuals have to be given an example. I just couldn't turn them away," said Abdalla. "They committed felonies. You have to make room."

But in order to do that, Abdalla let three people go who were expected to be released soon, but had no other reason to be let go early.

Despite the problems the sheriff said the jail is having, he still had a strong message for felons in the area.

"They're going to jail. We're going to make room. Simple as that."

--Jasmine Lo, NEWS9

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