Violators Given Second Chance
Reporting Center Offers Alternative
by Chris Redford
The Shreveport Day Reporting Center has only been open since July 6th and it's already being called a success.
The facility acts as a second chance for probation and parole violators.
"The overall goal is to lower the recidivism rate one person at a time," said program manager John Hewitt.
Violators spent six hours a day at the center learning all kinds of life skills.
Brigitt Williams, on probation for a weapons conviction, says she's learned how to deal with her anger. Williams violated the conditions of her probation by failing a drug test.
Brenda Davenport, who violated her parole by testing dirty, spends her day at the center studying for her GED. She plans to eventually go to school and become a medical tech.
There are only two day reporting centers in the state. The other is in New Orleans.
Hewitt says the Shreveport center has already exceeded all expectations and has received praise from probation and parole officers.
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