CONWAY, S.C. (WBTW) – Police say a new program that aims to keep some drug offenders out of jail, is working.
The program is called C.S.T.A.N.D. or Conway Starting Toward a New Direction. Daimontae Harris, 22, is one of seven people enrolled in the program, which started in April. He works at Big Daddy’s Roadhouse during the day and as a club bouncer at night. He also attends classes to get his G.E.D.
“It’s pretty hard, but I got to do, what I got to do,” said Harris.
He admitted life was easier selling drugs.
“I could wake up when I wanted to wake up, go to sleep when I wanted to go to sleep,” he said.
However, his goals now reach beyond the streets thanks to C.S.T.A.N.D. Harris said the program gave him a second chance. He was caught selling drugs to an undercover cop and faced 10 years in prison.
“They could’ve just locked me up with everybody else,” he stated.
Program Coordinator Capt. Tammy Carter helps schedule A.A. meetings, counseling sessions and G.E.D. classes for participants, which they are required to attend. It adds up to about 20 hours a week.
“We do home visits. We know the family. We know their children,” said Carter.
Carter said she works hard to keep Harris and the other six C.S.T.A.N.D. participants motivated, but ultimately they have to find it within themselves to attend.
“You know we’re here to help you, but you have to want it and help yourself for the change,” Carter states.
Carter said they’re starting week 12 of the program and the participants seem very enthusiastic.
Harris wants to open his own restaurant. While some people may doubt he can do it, he’s confident in himself.
“I’m going to be one that can prove to them that we can do it,” says Harris assuredly.
The program wraps up in four weeks, followed by a graduation. Capt.Carter said all participants are required to return and speak about their experience with the next group.
