Policy helps clear criminal records for first-time offenders

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — There has been a major policy change from the Mecklenburg County district attorney to make sure everyone has access to a fresh start.

[Deferred prosecution costs discussed in court] 

Starting Wednesday, first-time offenders who qualify for a deferred prosecution judgment that can help them clear their criminal record won't be disqualified if they can't afford it.

Deferred prosecution allows first-time offenders a chance to get a clean record but they have to pay for it.

The amount is connected directly to the amount of restitution owed, which many can't afford to pay.

Under the new policy, a person's finances won't stop them from being considered for the judgment.

Last year, local clergy rallied outside the courthouse demanding the policy be changed.

The former district attorney and public defender even battled it out in a hearing over the issue.

“This is something where we think the community wins,” District Attorney Spencer Merriweather said. “We are empowering people to take advantage of a second chance and we're also empowering victims to give them the opportunity to be made whole again.”

The public defender's office said the new policy should also keep the community safer.

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