[ Disposition]
Christopher Quinn, "Sentencing program in Cherokee makes young offenders give a flip," Atlanta Journal-Constitution, December 2, 1999.

Young men who don't belong to be incarcerated with proven criminals but don't deserve to get off unpunished have another alternative in Cherokee County, Georgia. The program, called Alternative Sentencing-Adults Program, allows the right candidates to choose between probation and six months of judo classes. Not only does judo teach discipline, it builds positive self-esteem which is something many of the young men need. Because the defendant is paying for the class, it does not cost taxpayers anything and frees up parole officers to spend more time with those who need it. Of the 40 young men who entered the program prior to the article, 17 finished, 14 were still in, and 9 were returned to the criminal justice system for punishment after not completing the program.

• What positives are there for the defendants in this type of alternative sentencing program?
• What are the benefits to local authorities for this type of program?