NEW ORLEANS » The last of three high-profile Louisiana prisoners known as the "Angola Three" could walk free within days after a federal judge ordered state officials to release him immediately.

On Monday U.S. District Judge James Brady ruled that 68-year-old Albert Woodfox must be set free.

Woodfox was a Black Panther activist seeking better conditions at the infamous state prison called Angola in 1972 when a 23-year-old guard was stabbed to death. Woodfox was one of three Black Panther leaders accused in the guard’s death. He has been convicted twice at trial, but both convictions were overturned.

Human rights groups are closely monitoring the case.

Although Brady’s ruling opens the way for Woodfox’s freedom, Louisiana Attorney General James "Buddy" Caldwell says he will appeal it.