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Christian Caldwell was plagued by depression and anxiety in his youth. He was prescribed several different pharmaceuticals, but nothing helped. He started self-medicating with alcohol, and soon began to get into fights. He later committed a crime he didn't remember. No one was injured, but he pled guilty to burglary and assault to avoid prison time.
Eventually diagnosed with a personality disorder, Christian found that behavioral therapy has given him tools he never had before. He completed his sentence and has been trouble-free for 15 years. However, trapped by his criminal history, he has been barred from several jobs -- even after being hired or offered employment.
Fifteen years is long enough to conclude that he has been rehabilitated and deserves a fair shake at a career.
Read the entire publication: Every Sentence Should Not Equal a Life Sentence: Collateral Consequences Reform in Delaware.
Christian's story is one of thousands throughout Delaware. The ACLU of Delaware is initiating and supporting legislation to correct these injustices.
Special thanks to Caspari McCormick, who generously provided design and photography.