Across South Carolina, law enforcement officials are concerned with drug-related crimes. Undercover investigations are frequently conducted in the areas that seem to be hurting the most by this activity. State and federal law regarding drug sales, in particular, are quite strict, and anyone accused of this faces the possibility of imprisonment if a conviction is secured by prosecuting attorneys. However, some are questioning whether or not this punishment is really the best thing.
After over a year of investigating drug networks in Horry County, several individuals believed responsible for the sale of drugs have been rounded up by police. Some faced federal charges and have already been indicted, while others are still facing state charges. A select few, however, may be able to forgo criminal charges and imprisonment thanks to the Drug Market Intervention Initiative.
This relatively new program was put in place as an alternative to the traditional punishment for drug crimes. The individuals who are allowed to try this program will be given the opportunity to gain an education and receive job-training. Those who are able to stick with the program, which includes living crime-free, can avoid criminal charges; however, any misstep will result in charges being filed.
The Drug Market Intervention Initiative is not available everywhere yet, but, for those who live in the boundaries of where it is offered and who are accepted into the program, this can be a life-changing opportunity. South Carolina residents who are not given this same opportunity do still have legal options open to them. Even though state and federal law with regard to drug crimes is tough to fight, those accused, along with legal counsel, can review all available legal options and pursue a course of action that best suits the situation at hand.
Source: The Huffington Post, “These 7 Drug Dealers Were Caught Red-Handed. Instead Of Jail, They Get A Second Chance.“, Ryan J. Reilly, April 21, 2015