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RALEIGH — On Tuesday, the Court of Appeals ruled that at least two inmates that were sentenced to life in prison more than 30 years ago could be released because of a quirk in the law.

The two men were sentenced to life in prison in the 1970's for second-degree murder and second-degree burglary. At the time, the law defined a life term as 80 years, and inmates could earn reduced sentences through classes or working while in jail.

State lawyers say the men should remain incarcerated until they die. Officials say at least a dozen other inmates with similar cases could also be released. The case will likely to head to the Supreme Court.