In 1996, Matthew Charles was sentenced to 35 years in prison for drug-related offenses. He served over 20 years. While in prison, he took college courses and became a law clerk and mentor to his fellow prisoners. He served his time without a single disciplinary infraction.
Today, Matthew Charles is a free man thanks to his conduct and a new federal law aimed at giving prisoners a second chance.
The FIRST STEP Act, among other things, gives prisoners credits toward their release for good conduct and for participating in programs that benefit their reentry into society. Such programs may include vocational training, educational support, substance abuse treatment, mental health care, anger-management courses, faith-based initiatives or other resources proven to lower recidivism.
Ninth District Georgia Congressman Doug Collins introduced the bill last year. It’s modeled after prison reforms implemented in Georgia under former Gov. Nathan Deal.
President Trump signed the FIRST STEP Act into law in December.
“With the FIRST STEP Act in place, men and women like Mr. Charles can access resources proven to help them become more productive citizens,” Collins says.
The congressman met with Charles at the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday.
“There have always been faces woven into the lines of this bill,” says Rep. Collins. “Matthew Charles is one of those faces, reminding us that investing in redemption can enrich families and communities.”
