A request for a transfer to a less restrictive, treatment-oriented correctional facility has been denied for a television personality currently serving a sentence related to a driving offense.
The individual, who was sentenced to a 12-month term earlier this year, sought a transfer to a pre-release center shortly after becoming eligible. This type of facility is often described as more rehabilitative, focusing on treatment programs and preparing individuals for reintegration, with rules that include securing local employment.
While the initial application received approval from corrections officials, final authorization from a presiding judge was required. That judicial approval was not granted. A legal representative for the individual attributed the denial to “unfortunate luck” in judicial assignment, noting the specific judge has a reputation for stringent rulings in such matters.
As a result, the individual will complete the remainder of the sentence at the original correctional facility. With credit for time already served and good behavior, an early release is anticipated later this year.
Defense counsel expressed disappointment over the decision, stating the alternative facility would have provided more intensive access to treatment programs the individual had been participating in prior to incarceration. The pre-release center also enforces strict rules, including a prohibition on any work involving recording equipment, which would have precluded television production activities.
Reports indicate the individual declined an earlier proposed plea agreement that would have involved home confinement. During sentencing, the judge cited a history of prior similar offenses as a significant factor in deciding against a probation-only sentence, deeming standard sentencing recommendations insufficient in this case.
