Release of Addicts

* Regarding early release of L.A. County jail inmates, May 20:

I have represented individuals who were committed for one year due to use of methamphetamine. Due to overcrowding, they were released after a few months and placed in the work program. Even though the sentence included probation with mandatory drug testing, no testing took place while they were in the work program, as that was deemed “in custody.”

This policy is plainly stupid. Addicts require a period of detoxification and counseling, along with testing, or they will offend. Releasing an addict into his/her neighborhood and placing him/her in the work program with a bunch of other addicts simply create a new product supply source. It would be laughable if not so tragic. Fortunately, my clients contacted me upon release and I arranged ongoing counseling so re-offense did not occur.

If the court authorizes early release to the work program, all of the terms of probation must be enforced. Without supervision, early release is a ticket back to jail.

ALEX POLSKY

Orange