|
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458
Hall of Famer
|
OP
Hall of Famer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458 |
My good ole days are about finished. And I am feeling pretty ill right now. I just found out that I am not eligible for employment at the few places that got back to me about getting some type of employment.
Over the past month I have applied at 50 different jobs and 2 temp agencies desperate for some kind of job.
Why am I desperate. Because I got into some legal trouble and the court is holding two felonies over my head and has placed these requirements upon me.
1. No Drivers License for two years.
2. Attend an AA or NA meeting once a day for 90 days, then 3 times a week for two years.
3. Find a full-time job, or two part-time jobs within 45 days.
4. Attend 3, 3hr intensive outpatient program meetings per week; then after a month, attend 1, 2hr IOP meetings per week.
5. Do not work or attend any event where alcohol is served: No sporting events, family bbq's, restaurants, bars, golf courses, bowling alleys, etc. for two years.
6. Do not live or work anywhere where I would have access to firearms.
7. Meet with probation officer ever first thursday of every month, plus once randomly every month.
8. Abstain from all alcohol and illegal drugs for two years.
9. Pay 45 dollars a month for court fees.
10. Pay 20 dollars a month for probation supervision fees.
11. Pay 25 dollars for public defender fee. (I thought representation was free.)
And why was this all handed down....two counts of drug possession. Possession of heroin and possession of cocaine.
Worst part of that whole deal---the reality is, the passenger in my car had a spoon in his book bag and it had residue on it. The police decided to just charge us both for it.....
We went to jail, they asked if we had any other drugs on us. I said no...passenger--he says, yea. He produces two needles and a crackpipe hidden in his pants. We both get charged for that too. Did I know about him having this stuff.
Nope.
Did I suspect he had a drug problem.
yea.
I have been clean, from heroin since July 28, 2009. And I haven't touched cocaine since at least 2005.
But this ex co-worker, and my willingness to drive him from point A, to point B has really screwed me up.
Once I went to court, I contacted a few lawyers---and teh general consensus was.....this is ridiculous. We can get you off....you just gotta pay 5-7 thousand dollars.
A few lawyers quoted me at 3500, but I didn't trust them after seeing pictures of marijuana leaves on their websites. How do you take a professional attorney seriously when he has pictures of drugs all over his site.
Anyways, I talked to the public defender who offered up this alternative---intervention in lieu of conviction. She tells me I plead no contest, and they enter me in a program where I have to go to some meetings---like once a week, plus consent to drug testing, and meet with a probation officer--she says the program lasts 6-12 months.
I feel like; wow...I can save some serious dough by going with the program. Going to meeting ain't a problem, staying clean isn't a problem (I rarely do anything illicit anymore.), and probation for 6-12 isn't that bad.
I consent to this.
The morning of court the public defender calls me at 6am to tell me she won't be there, but she will be sending someone in her place---and I now have to plead guilty.
Its odd, I think, but whatever; this program will work fine, and it will get rid of both felonies.
Cool.
I go in front of judge Kathleen Anne Sutula who then proceeds to nail me with all these extra requirements that I had no idea would come into play. She threatens to send me to prison for one year if I fail to meet any of these criteria. If I go to prison, then I get to get out and go through 3 years of the same program I am in now.
Well, Its been a little over a month since this took place, and I am a HUGE burden on my friends and family. We drive around 30 miles roundtrip to meeting every day. I have complied with everything......except...
NO ONE WILL HIRE ME!!!!
This is not in my control. I can fill out app after app, but at the end of the day....its up to someone else to want to pick up this huge liability that I am. I have had three call backs, but every single one backs off after running a background check and seeing two felonies and no license.
I feel like I have been setup to fail.
I feel like I got taken advantage of by a so-called friend.
Taken advantage of by an unconcerned public defender.
And finally, taken advantage of by a court system who is more concerned with getting convictions than upholding justice.
I almost had to move out of my house b/c I went back home and their are guns here, locked in a safe. They all had to be removed b/c my family had to choose between their son and their $7k in firearms. Even though I had no access to said firearms---they are locked in a huge safe----I am still in constructive possession b/c I live in this house now.
I had a job, but had to quit b/c alcohol was served there. And as someone with little experience outside the service industry---I am screwed.
One of the worst parts, is I wake up everyday to this nightmare. I go to my meetings, pray a lot, and really hope that I am not sent to prison and therefore saddled with two felonies for the rest of my life.
For sure, a life sentence. Those felonies, my personal scarlet letters, will affect my ability to get employed, and my quality of life for the rest of my 40 odd years of on this planet.
Does anyone have any idea how to get a job. Anyone have any idea what to do in this situation.
Anyone.
anyone...
anyone.
Whats even worse....thsi guy who was with me---he moved out of state, he has a warrant---and I seriously doubt Cuyahoga county is going to go all the way to PA for his punk ***. He has prior felonies and he is running.....and getting away with it. Meanwhile, I am looking ever increasingly like prison is on the horizon.
Yep....Derden is up a creek, and I am really hating my life.
I am not stupid, I am very capable---but no one will hire me b/c of this record.
I wish to wash my Irish wristwatch......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027 |
that sucks man. I hope you can get outta this and get a good job.
It's pretty obvious that you have had your issues, but it seems like you're a pretty good person as well.
My advice would be to just keep clean, and keep a positive attitude. Learn from your mistakes.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 40,399
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 40,399 |
I have no advice but I wish you the best. On second thought, the only small piece of advice I can give you is to keep copious notes. Every job you apply for, every job that calls you back, the reason every job turns you down, every sacrifice you and your family make, every single effort you make to comply with the courts mandates, write it down.
I don't know if it would buy you any latitude or not but if you can show a SERIOUS effort in your attempts to comply then that can't hurt.
yebat' Putin
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 7,234
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 7,234 |
First off, sorry for the bluntness, it's weird that I got a sense or relief reading that, but it was unavoidable considering your post title and first paragraph had me bracing myself to find out you're dying or something.
Second, are you SURE you've explored every option? There aren't employment sites or programs specifically designed for people in your situation?
Do employers have any idea of your background BEFORE they do the checks? Seems like brutal honesty up front might be your only chance of landing something. Anything . . .
If you stay out of trouble, I don't see why prison is a given for you.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 40,399
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 40,399 |
I have no advice but I wish you the best. On second thought, the only small piece of advice I can give you is to keep copious notes. Every job you apply for, every job that calls you back, the reason every job turns you down, every sacrifice you and your family make, every single effort you make to comply with the courts mandates, write it down.
I don't know if it would buy you any latitude or not but if you can show a SERIOUS effort in your attempts to comply then that can't hurt.
I'm sure some people will post (or if they won't post it they will think it) that you are getting what you deserve and that you are paying the price for past transgressions.. I just wish you the best and will pray that you come out of this ok. God Bless.
yebat' Putin
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458
Hall of Famer
|
|
OP
Hall of Famer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458 |
This is aomething I have done. I have documented everything. Every app, every meeting, mileage, time, call-backs, interviews, everything.
I worry, b/c.
With the gun issue, I asked my probation officer if it was OK to have guns in a safe. She said we would have to check with the judge and get back to me. A week later I got a summons to court for a probation violation.
Judge tried to sent me to prison. I had to explain I was only looking for clarification.
She said, "Looks pretty clear to me."
This looks like a violation.
She then gave me an opportunity to tell the family that they can no longer keep their guns b/c of me.
I wish to wash my Irish wristwatch......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 42,857
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 42,857 |
Man, I'm sorry you are having the troubles you are facing. That's a tough situation to be in.
But damn,,, the title made me think you were dying or something..
I hope you figure it out man...
#GMSTRONG
“Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not to his own facts.”
Daniel Patrick Moynahan
"Alternative facts hurt us all. Think before you blindly believe."
Damanshot
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517 |
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 42,857
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 42,857 |
Quote:
army?
Will the army accept him with a drug conviction?
#GMSTRONG
“Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not to his own facts.”
Daniel Patrick Moynahan
"Alternative facts hurt us all. Think before you blindly believe."
Damanshot
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458
Hall of Famer
|
|
OP
Hall of Famer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458 |
Too old anyway....cut-off is 27-28
I wish to wash my Irish wristwatch......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517 |
Quote:
Quote:
army?
Will the army accept him with a drug conviction?
i dont know. thats what i was asking.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 1,517 |
Quote:
Too old anyway....cut-off is 27-28
dang i didnt know that was the cut-off. i'm too old too and i'm not even 30!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 28,165
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 28,165 |
Quote:
Too old anyway....cut-off is 27-28
I'm pretty sure that the cut off for Army is significantly higher as I've recently been giving consideration to going back in, and I'm 40. Granted, I have almost 5 years of prior service, but that's beside the point.
At worst, you could go National Guard/Reserves. The benefit there is that you give yourself the opportunity to establish a positive track record in an organization that is highly & universally respected by all employers. You do that, and you'll be able to counter in every interview with "yes, I have a felony, but that was before my 'x' years of Good Conduct service in the Army. I'm no longer the same guy that caught that felony.".
All of that aside:
1. Do your meetings - 90 in 90 is easy. Staying clean & sober is easy. You just simply have to choose it - it really is that simple.
2. Get to know people at meetings, talk to people that run sober houses. Sober people like to hire sober people - we know that sometimes in life you catch a felony and that is not an indicator of who you are - as long as you honestly choose to leave that way of life behind.
3. Along the lines of #2, there are a number of companies in the Cleveland area owned by members of AA that tend to only hire people they meet at meetings. It's a way of helping people put their lives back together while giving them a positive work environment and helping them to establish a work history.
Nothing is over and nothing is at the end of the line - you've just been smacked in the head and given a wake up call - what you do with it from here is up to you. It will either define you and be the beginning of your end, or you will work to put it behind you and move beyond it.
Browns is the Browns
... there goes Joe Thomas, the best there ever was in this game.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 50,418
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 50,418 |
1st thing you better do is contact the court and tell them the situation. Ask your lawyer how to proceed, and let him/her know (with notes) what you have done to look for a job, and the results/problems you have had.
It's better to go forward before there's a problem then to wait till they have to come searching for you.
Micah 6:8; He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
John 14:19 Jesus said: Because I live, you also will live.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,693
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,693 |
Quote:
8. Abstain from all alcohol and illegal drugs for two years.
Only two years, huh? Hm.
![[Linked Image from i.imgur.com]](https://i.imgur.com/hfMNC7T.jpg) "I am undeterred and I am undaunted." --Kevin Stefanski "Big hairy American winning machines." --Baker Mayfield #gmstrong
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,955
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,955 |
Derdun, if you're really off the drugs, congrats. Good luck in your quest to find work and get and stay sober.
#gmstrong #gmlapdance
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 658
All Pro
|
|
All Pro
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 658 |
What about flipping burgers in a fast food joint? Or washing dishes at a place that doesn't serve alcohol. I don't think they do extensive background checks.
Thomas - The Tank Engine
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 50,418
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 50,418 |
While I was managing my restaurant, I had a couple of guys who were on probation. They knew that they had to be there when scheduled, they knew that they had to be on time, and they knew that they had to do a good job ...... or it could be back to jail for them.
Fast food could be an option .... especially a late night shift. (which might be harder for a restaurant to cover)
Micah 6:8; He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
John 14:19 Jesus said: Because I live, you also will live.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027 |
I used to love washing dishes at Perkins. Seriously if that job payed better, I'd do it as a career.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,388
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,388 |
I never minded washing dishes at the resteraunt I worked at either. I'm the same way at home, I hate leaving dirty dishes around, I usually have most of them done while cooking.
"The medium for the bad news was ESPN, which figured. The network represents much of what is loud, obnoxious and empty in sports today."
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,064
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,064 |
Sorry to read about all the "stuff" piling on, it all sucks. Thought you were terminal when I opened this. Hope that things (and you improve for the better as a result of all this guidance), but it is hard now. Is it possible to "start" your own business, or a relation you could yank a favor from? Do the jobs need to be paying to satisfy the judge? Some non-profits have limited positions paid, but some; I know from my volunteering that many are strapped for help. Short term, is part-time hours suitable to a judge as a second one? I know that people i volunteer with for homeless, Salvation Army, and others try to help with a reference or drop a name. I am picky about it, but maybe a judge would see 15-20 per week as a good enough thing. One place some retired folks have found work here is with Elderly United/ Meals on Wheels and such. These maybe lousy; sorry I do not have better. But I send my best wishes that something better finds you and you move beyond this. Good luck, and ask everyone around you. 
"Every responsibility implies opportunity, and every opportunity implies responsibility." Otis Allen Glazebrook, 1880
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 17,027 |
Quote:
I never minded washing dishes at the resteraunt I worked at either. I'm the same way at home, I hate leaving dirty dishes around, I usually have most of them done while cooking.
That's how I am. I can't relax if I know there are dishes sitting in the sink. I think it's that I hate that if I need to use the sink for something, it bothers the hell out of me when I can't because it's filled with dirty dishes.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,964
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,964 |
As you found out, a public defender is about worthless. Pleading guilty was a major mistake. At any time, did you deviate from " I have no idea what that is and have never seen it before in my life."?
Any details on exactly how the search happened? After arrest?
Anyway, try a sales job paying straight commission, or one of those phone sales jobs. They can suck but they will hire just about anybody.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,960
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 3,960 |
Forgive my ignorance, but you had all those penalties thrown at you just for possession of two drugs? Seems a bit steep.
President - Fort Collins Browns Backers
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,367
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 11,367 |
Quote:
NO ONE WILL HIRE ME!!!!
This is not in my control. I can fill out app after app, but at the end of the day....its up to someone else to want to pick up this huge liability that I am. I have had three call backs, but every single one backs off after running a background check and seeing two felonies and no license.
I feel like I have been setup to fail.
I feel like I got taken advantage of by a so-called friend.
Taken advantage of by an unconcerned public defender.
And finally, taken advantage of by a court system who is more concerned with getting convictions than upholding justice.
First off, drop the whoa is me attitude and own up to the fact that you put yourself in this position. Even if you are totally innocent you have done exactly what you have been charged with MANY times in the past and were lucky not to get caught. Hanging around with people doing this kind of thing will also put you in harm's way. You know all of that damn well.
As soon as you get rid of treating yourself like a victim in all this and take responsibility to get yourself out of this mess you might just empower yourself to actually do it.
I have no doubt that you have the smarts and the power to make a life worth being proud of, but you absolutely have to lose the victim crap.
What kind of things are you passionate about? If you can find an owner of a smaller type company that you can show your true interest in whatever line of work they are in and convince them you really want to turn things around for yourself, you will find a job.
It won't be easy, but you can do it, I have no doubt about that.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 30,825
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 30,825 |
Something seems odd.
The public defender told you about a program/intervention you could get into. More often than not, the atty. has already spoken with the prosecutor - something to the effect of "is he eligible for this program?" Then he/she didn't show up? But had the courtesy to call you at 6 a.m. to tell you to plead guilty?
Dude, you plead guilty to 2 counts of possession. What is the court supposed to do?
And you feel like you got taken advantage of - because you plead guilty, because you wanted to save some money, like $5000 to $7000. Hindsight is 20/20 - but spending the money seems like it would've been a bargain. Granted, you didn't know how things would turn out - but you plead guilty? Because the guy you were driving had drugs? He had the drugs, but you plead guilty?
Anyway - it seems, (if all this is true) that you have no problems with any of the requirements other than the "get a job, or 2 part time jobs" thing. Fast food restaurants, or gas stations. (stations sell alcohol, but can't "serve" it). Find out if volunteer work qualifies as a part time job. If so, hospitals, nursing homes - both are always looking for volunteers - keep looking for paying work as well.
It's not the end of the world, though. You'll get through it, one way or another.
Also - it seems odd that his being in possession of 2 needles and a crack pipe - that he pulled out of his pants at the jail - it just seems odd that you get cited for his possessing those. Not saying it didn't happen - just saying it seems odd. But possessing drug paraphernalia is different than possessing drugs, is it not? And especially if he pulled them out of his pants at the jail.
Anyway - if all this is true, first of all, getting an attorney would've been the best thing. You know that now, obviously. Secondly, don't give up - keep looking. I've found that the "not knowing" how things will end up is usually much worse than knowing, and following through. Best of luck.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 19,133
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 19,133 |
Quote:
Find out if volunteer work qualifies as a part time job. If so, hospitals, nursing homes - both are always looking for volunteers - keep looking for paying work as well.
That was my first thought as I read the original post. Homeless centers, Goodwill, the Salvation Army etc. are always looking for volunteers and will keep attendance and time records. Volunteer for two of them and it willl meet your two part time jobs requirement. As you prove yourself in these positions, you can develop contacts and references for your job search.
And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.
- John Muir
#GMSTRONG
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458
Hall of Famer
|
|
OP
Hall of Famer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458 |
To answer some questions.....int he state of ohio, any amount of drugs is possession, from an ounce to .0000345 grains.
So a spoon with some left over powder, even if it has been dowsed with water and injected over and over by a junkie---its still possession. A crackpipe that has been used even once---possession b/c of residue.
I plead guilty b/c I thought the program sounded simple enough. I have gone long, long, long periods in life without drugs or alcohol---believe it or not, I did have a life at one time outside of that.
But yea, a crackpipe, needles, and a spoon equals possession if they have residue.
After talking to my neighbor, who is a felon, killed a guy like 30 years ago, he said to narrow my search to small companies, and do background checks on the owners to determine if they have felonies themselves.
Also said to look into Government jobs b/c a gov't. agency cannot discriminate against people felony of no felony.
I have been feeling pretty down all day, thank everyone for spending your time and replying with thoughtful posts.
I wish to wash my Irish wristwatch......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 39,550
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 39,550 |
I am pretty certain the Court will grant you some leeway on the jobs if you can show you are actively seeking gainful employment.
The Judge isn't a dope....he or she knows people who don't posses the strikes you have can't find jobs.
Days are done only if you want them to be.
Tyler.....it sounds like you have had some infractions in the past. It sounds like the Judge has hammered you because you have had ample chances before.
It's time to grow up.
You can do one of two things....fold and never exit the suck of the legal system, or say never again and work like a wildman to get out of the drain.
As someone noted.....2 years no alcohol......really man, you just need to think NEVER again....forget 2 years.
Some people have substance abuse problems....hell, I do to be honest.....but I don't drive drunk or get in to situations it causes me problems other then my liver saying it might be time to tone it down. I never had a drug problem, so I can't speak for that....the last time I toked some pot was maybe 1969-70....never did any of that other stuff.
Maybe this won't work for you, but it can if you let it....Maybe you need to try to talk to God for a while.
Best of luck to you....and I mean that. My hope is you finally see the light and have the resolve to get around the 8-ball heading directly towards you.
Nobody wants to see people in prison over this stuff, but in many cases that's the only place one can finally be free of the temptation.
If everybody had like minds, we would never learn. GM Strong ![[Linked Image]](http://www.dawgtalkers.net/uploads/small-gator-chomp.gif)
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,246
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,246 |
I can't tell you what to do and some of the folks above have said it better. But you have my support.
Pull yourself up, it is not a life sentence. People have done and gone through worse and managed to right their ship--you can too.
When you say Derdens days are done I am more thinking that perhaps you are facing a new direction--perhaps a much needed direction than what you are used to--that is not a bad thing.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458
Hall of Famer
|
|
OP
Hall of Famer
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 4,458 |
Quote:
Forgive my ignorance, but you had all those penalties thrown at you just for possession of two drugs? Seems a bit steep.
It is a bit steep. Especially considering I have no priors. None. Only a few traffic tickets.
On the other hand....passenger dude. He has a felony possession charge, assault, multiple domestic violences, dui's, etc. etc.
They nailed me though. Its pretty sickening. I am wondering though, if I have any real legal recourse.
I think I set teh bar too high in my employment search though. I think I need to look at small, small, small locally owned companies, landscaping jobs, and maybe goodwill.
I was submitting resume's looking for a legitimate career.
I can't work anywhere with guns or alcohol, or children, the elderly, or the disabled.
The things that get to me though.
Is what the hell is the point to this. I mean....you want someone to move on with their life---but you inhibit them from gaining any legitimate employment.
You force them into low-level employment where the need to eat and have a place to live would often turn one back to crime. You want teh people to turn their lives around---but you place hurdles in the way.
Personally, I have always believed that felonies are given out way, way, way too much in America. Some figures have the felon population into the millions in this country. Its a lot easier to get a felony than one may think....especially if you don't have the money to throw at the justice system. That little blindfolded lady with her hand out and the scales. Thats for you to put your money in and see what you get. Enough money and you can kill someone and not get in the trouble I am in.
Its pretty bad.
My family and friends were all like----they gave you what???
Over a spoon and a crackpipe?!!?
(they counldn't use the needles b/c, apparently, if the needle part is broken off, then they can't charge you for them.)
It belonged to this other dude (in his pants and bookbag). He pointed the finger at me and is currently capias.
To even attempt to saddle someone with a sentence that they will carry their whole life is absolutely, 100% ludicrous.
I wish to wash my Irish wristwatch......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 6,650
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 6,650 |
I don't know who gave you legal advise, but no one should ever plead guilty to a felony.
I would make every effort to get the felony charge removed or reduced. Find a lawyer, someone gave you terrible advise.
You have found out why, it is difficult for a felon to get a job.
Welcome back, Joe, we missed you!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 15,979
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 15,979 |
A high percentagae of jobs landed are through knowing someone in the job.
I think your chances are better, the smaller the parent coroporation or parent company is that you would be given a chance, because the bigger the company the more likely they will just have a template and not even consider the circumstances, no matter how you explain it.
If I were in your shoes,
say you have 2 choices, Swan Cleaners or family owned Cleaners, I'd focus more attention on the family owned Cleaners.
I also think that 2 part time jobs would be easier to find in 45 days with a felony than 1 full time job.
I would look at Nursery's , and any of these thousands of lawn care start ups that are on our roads, this time of year, often they need a 2 person crew.
The drivers license would certainly help give you more options. The number 1 thing I would hope to do if I were in that situation would be to expand the number of people that would be trying to find something for me, because I really think the most likely option that lands you a job would come from someone who you may barely know who knows of a situation that gives you the opportuinity.
So you should reach out to people you know well and have them ask people they know well and also you should reach out to people you never would like ask the person at the bus stop, the coffee shop, etc. you never know what their answer might be.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 34,532
Legend
|
|
Legend
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 34,532 |
I might be able to help. Check your PM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 647
All Pro
|
|
All Pro
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 647 |
Quote:
My good ole days are about finished. And I am feeling pretty ill right now. I just found out that I am not eligible for employment at the few places that got back to me about getting some type of employment.
Over the past month I have applied at 50 different jobs and 2 temp agencies desperate for some kind of job.
Why am I desperate. Because I got into some legal trouble and the court is holding two felonies over my head and has placed these requirements upon me.
1. No Drivers License for two years.
2. Attend an AA or NA meeting once a day for 90 days, then 3 times a week for two years.
3. Find a full-time job, or two part-time jobs within 45 days.
4. Attend 3, 3hr intensive outpatient program meetings per week; then after a month, attend 1, 2hr IOP meetings per week.
5. Do not work or attend any event where alcohol is served: No sporting events, family bbq's, restaurants, bars, golf courses, bowling alleys, etc. for two years.
6. Do not live or work anywhere where I would have access to firearms.
7. Meet with probation officer ever first thursday of every month, plus once randomly every month.
8. Abstain from all alcohol and illegal drugs for two years.
9. Pay 45 dollars a month for court fees.
10. Pay 20 dollars a month for probation supervision fees.
11. Pay 25 dollars for public defender fee. (I thought representation was free.)
And why was this all handed down....two counts of drug possession. Possession of heroin and possession of cocaine.
Worst part of that whole deal---the reality is, the passenger in my car had a spoon in his book bag and it had residue on it. The police decided to just charge us both for it.....
We went to jail, they asked if we had any other drugs on us. I said no...passenger--he says, yea. He produces two needles and a crackpipe hidden in his pants. We both get charged for that too. Did I know about him having this stuff.
Nope.
Did I suspect he had a drug problem.
yea.
I have been clean, from heroin since July 28, 2009. And I haven't touched cocaine since at least 2005.
But this ex co-worker, and my willingness to drive him from point A, to point B has really screwed me up.
Once I went to court, I contacted a few lawyers---and teh general consensus was.....this is ridiculous. We can get you off....you just gotta pay 5-7 thousand dollars.
A few lawyers quoted me at 3500, but I didn't trust them after seeing pictures of marijuana leaves on their websites. How do you take a professional attorney seriously when he has pictures of drugs all over his site.
Anyways, I talked to the public defender who offered up this alternative---intervention in lieu of conviction. She tells me I plead no contest, and they enter me in a program where I have to go to some meetings---like once a week, plus consent to drug testing, and meet with a probation officer--she says the program lasts 6-12 months.
I feel like; wow...I can save some serious dough by going with the program. Going to meeting ain't a problem, staying clean isn't a problem (I rarely do anything illicit anymore.), and probation for 6-12 isn't that bad.
I consent to this.
The morning of court the public defender calls me at 6am to tell me she won't be there, but she will be sending someone in her place---and I now have to plead guilty.
Its odd, I think, but whatever; this program will work fine, and it will get rid of both felonies.
Cool.
I go in front of judge Kathleen Anne Sutula who then proceeds to nail me with all these extra requirements that I had no idea would come into play. She threatens to send me to prison for one year if I fail to meet any of these criteria. If I go to prison, then I get to get out and go through 3 years of the same program I am in now.
Well, Its been a little over a month since this took place, and I am a HUGE burden on my friends and family. We drive around 30 miles roundtrip to meeting every day. I have complied with everything......except...
NO ONE WILL HIRE ME!!!!
This is not in my control. I can fill out app after app, but at the end of the day....its up to someone else to want to pick up this huge liability that I am. I have had three call backs, but every single one backs off after running a background check and seeing two felonies and no license.
I feel like I have been setup to fail.
I feel like I got taken advantage of by a so-called friend.
Taken advantage of by an unconcerned public defender.
And finally, taken advantage of by a court system who is more concerned with getting convictions than upholding justice.
I almost had to move out of my house b/c I went back home and their are guns here, locked in a safe. They all had to be removed b/c my family had to choose between their son and their $7k in firearms. Even though I had no access to said firearms---they are locked in a huge safe----I am still in constructive possession b/c I live in this house now.
I had a job, but had to quit b/c alcohol was served there. And as someone with little experience outside the service industry---I am screwed.
One of the worst parts, is I wake up everyday to this nightmare. I go to my meetings, pray a lot, and really hope that I am not sent to prison and therefore saddled with two felonies for the rest of my life.
For sure, a life sentence. Those felonies, my personal scarlet letters, will affect my ability to get employed, and my quality of life for the rest of my 40 odd years of on this planet.
Does anyone have any idea how to get a job. Anyone have any idea what to do in this situation.
Anyone.
anyone...
anyone.
Whats even worse....thsi guy who was with me---he moved out of state, he has a warrant---and I seriously doubt Cuyahoga county is going to go all the way to PA for his punk ***. He has prior felonies and he is running.....and getting away with it. Meanwhile, I am looking ever increasingly like prison is on the horizon.
Yep....Derden is up a creek, and I am really hating my life.
I am not stupid, I am very capable---but no one will hire me b/c of this record.
Sorry to hear that. Sutula is a very tough judge. I heard a story in which a defendant was wearing a Democrat-themed shirt and she gave him a tougher sentence because he was a Democrat.
The public defender screwed you over. Get to know some lawyers and make connections and try to screw them over for what they did to you.
Go Browns!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,986
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,986 |
Quote:
Sorry to hear that. Sutula is a very tough judge. I heard a story in which a defendant was wearing a Democrat-themed shirt and she gave him a tougher sentence because he was a Democrat.
The public defender screwed you over. Get to know some lawyers and make connections and try to screw them over for what they did to you.
If she really gave someone a harsher penalty because of their political affiliation, she should be in jail.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 647
All Pro
|
|
All Pro
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 647 |
I saw this in 2004-2005 I think. If I find the article I will post it.
That being said, if he was wearing jeans and flip flops with his Democrat-themed shirt he probably was held in contempt.
I'll find the article.
Go Browns!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 658
All Pro
|
|
All Pro
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 658 |
If I were a judge, I would do the same thing. Not because of political affiliation, but because of political statements in my courtroom. If you are appearing in court, dress appropriately and show some respect. Wearing an Obama or Palin tee shirt into court is stupid, and stupid should hurt.
Thomas - The Tank Engine
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,986
Dawg Talker
|
|
Dawg Talker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,986 |
Quote:
If I were a judge, I would do the same thing. Not because of political affiliation, but because of political statements in my courtroom. If you are appearing in court, dress appropriately and show some respect. Wearing an Obama or Palin tee shirt into court is stupid, and stupid should hurt.
It isn't a crime to be stupid. Punish the person according to the crime, not their clothes. If the person is acting disrespectful, then sure, punish them accordingly, but if a person is acting respectful, their clothes shouldn't get them extra punishment.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,955
Hall of Famer
|
|
Hall of Famer
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 9,955 |
Whatever you do, don't wear a Browns t-shirt.  Sounds like a prison term.
#gmstrong #gmlapdance
|
|
|
DawgTalkers.net
Forums DawgTalk Tailgate Forum Derden's days are 'bout Done......
|
|
