Seven South Carolina individuals who were caught selling drugs on hidden cameras were reportedly offered a second chance. Instead of potentially being incarcerated, those who were interested were offered the opportunity to further their education and take advantage of job training with support from the local community of Conway and law enforcement officers.
This program, called the Drug Market Intervention Initiative, was begun in the town in Conway after it had been successfully implemented in North Charleston. Essentially, the participants are required to work towards their GEDs and avoid becoming involved in criminal activities. If they fail, however, law enforcement has the authority to take the participants into custody and charge them with appropriate offenses. It is not expected that all participants will succeed, but they do have the chance to better their lives without having to overcome a criminal record.
One of the individuals who was given the opportunity to be involved in the program stated that he intended to obtain his GED. Two others also stated that they intended to participate. It was not known if the four others who were eligible had agreed to participate.
When people are charged with drug trafficking, a prison sentence is a likely possibility if convictions are obtained. If that happens, there is very little opportunity to make lifestyle changes that could keep them out of trouble once they are released. A criminal law attorney may choose to negotiate a deal with the prosecution that would allow clients to participate in a rehabilitation program that would provide them with the tools and support they need. Not only could they potentially avoid a prison sentence, they may have the opportunity to receive job training and further their education.
Source: The Huffington Post, “These 7 Drug Dealers Were Caught Red-Handed. Instead Of Jail, They Get A Second Chance..”, Ryan J. Reilly, 04/21/2015
