A new program in Wayne County aims to keep criminals out of jail… by giving them a job. Job Court is the latest attempt by the state to reduce recidivism.
The program is new… and already in place in Marquette and Genesee counties. Only low-level, non-violent offenses will be considered – though some employers have nixed the idea of giving those convicted of shoplifting a job.
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says the program is all about giving people a second chance to make the right decision…
Nessel said, “The most dangerous person out there is a person who has nothing to lose and we want to give them something to lose and as a good-paying job with benefits”
Officials say 450 people will be employed through Job Court in the coming year. The program costs nearly five million dollars annually.