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I voted for 57 because it had treatment options rather than just incarceration. I am a recovering addict and I KNOW that treatment works and is a less expensive alternative to jail and prison time.

I have just celebrated 3 years in recovery. In these last 3 years, I have gotten a job, paid all my fines and court costs and gotten off probation early and not cost the state any money. I pay my taxes, rather than taxing the system by having to be housed, clothed and fed because of a prison sentence.

This change in my life came about because I was offered drug treatment. I know first hand that most of the people convicted of property crimes, have a drug problem. If we can find a way to address that issue on the front end, our city, counties and state will be able to save money, as treatment is more cost effective and has long term benefits.

I have a son, who is serving a 48 month sentence for property crimes. He was never offered treatment, just time. Had he been given the chance at treatment, he too, could be learning to be a productive member of the community, rather than costing us all unnecessary money, being housed in prison. As my former probation officer said to me "jail time is wasted time."

posted 4 years ago
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