In a recent Guest Opinion Megan McArdle from the Washington Post experienced being locked up on a small, dark cell without toilet paper. She stated is was utterly bleak and impossible to convey without being locked locked up yourself. Although she was only in there 10 minutes she said it felt like years.
Megan then witnessed a person who had violated probation repeatedly being offered treatment instead of jail. She was astonished when the offender declared in a stern voice that rehab would do no good. Apparently, Megan has lived a completely different way of life than the offender did.
For Megan to fully understand it was simple-reverse the situation and have her in front of the judge and the offender witnessing the judge offer Megan where she would be safe instead of the life she is accustomed to. If you haven't been there and experienced it you have no comprehension or understanding, other than what the psychologist, lawyer, counselor, non-recovering probation officer or other officer of the court say.
Working as a recovering alcoholic and licences alcohol and drug counselor for over 40 years and having the opportunity to have spent time in jail during my dark years, I know what it is like to share my experience, strength and hope with those who are incarcerated, then witness their recovery.
Employing recovering social workers and probation officers could be the first step in criminal justice reform.
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Ron Brusven
Minnesota LADC
Brainerd
