Second Chance Through Expungement Program (STEP)

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

The Wayne County Second Chance Through Expungement Program (STEP) assists reentering residents of Wayne County following a period of incarceration. Getting a conviction set aside or expunged can make it easier for individuals to get a job, housing and credit. Both adult convictions and juvenile adjudications can be set aside. The ability to set aside convictions was established in Michigan Public Act 213 of 1965. To be eligible in the state of Michigan, the individual must meet specific criteria: 1) applicant must have been convicted of no more than one non-violent offense; 20 at least five years must have passed from the date of completion of sentence or completion of any terms of imprisonment ot convictions; 3) applicant must not be convicted of any felony or misdemeanor after completing sentence or term imprisonment. Implemented in February 2008, STEP focuses on one-time, non-violent 18-35 year old male and female offenders who have paid their debt to society and have led a responsible, law abiding life for a minimum of five years. Participants have demonstrated their commitment to turning their lives around. Working in partnership with the Judge Mathis Foundation and Wayne County Community College Project Men, STEP participants receive training and build new job skills, enhancing their chances of starting a new career. To date, 2,312 applicants have met the initial screening criteria, 80 individuals have had their records expunged and 250 individuals have been referred for job training.