A judge in New York has signed an order granting the early release from prison of a dying former civil rights lawyer who was convicted in a terrorism case.
U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl wrote Tuesday his decision to release Lynne Stewart was made in part based on the recommendations of prosecutors and the director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
He says the 74-year-old Stewart will be released when her medical condition allows for it and travel arraignments can be made.
Stewart has breast cancer. She has been undergoing treatment in Carswell, Texas. She wasn't scheduled for release until August 2018.
Her lawyer says she's "elated" and could be let out as early as Tuesday night.
Stewart was convicted of helping a blind Egyptian sheik communicate with his followers from prison. She has been imprisoned since 2009.
© Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.