ello everyone I am new to this site so I thought I would share my story.

I am 18 years old from Philadelphia PA. Last year I did something very stupid, I was involved in a computer scam. Well about 1 month ago, the FBI raided my house with search warrant. I got a lawyer etc, from what I understand I am going to be getting 24-36 months. I was hoping since i was 17 when I did this stupid mistake that they would show some mercy but there not...

I am going to have to serve 24-36 months and payback 300K in restitution. This is my first time offense for anything. I am not really bad kid, just mad a really dumb mistake

I am really scared/nervous on what is going to happen...

Is there anyway to get my federal time lowered or something like that, I know you can get 15% for good behavior.

I heard there is a drug/alchoal program that can get 1 year knocked off. I don't do drugs or drink but I am thinking i should start attending alchoal anonymous classess to get some written proof i have a problem with it...

Also do you think I will be sent to a prison camp? I keep hearing "allenwood,pa". Also I read somewhere there is like bootcamps that are only 6 months long or does that not apply to me?

Any advice would really help!!! I am going nuts thinking about all this...

ello everyone I am new to this site so I thought I would share my story.

I am 18 years old from Philadelphia PA. Last year I did something very stupid, I was involved in a computer scam. Well about 1 month ago, the FBI raided my house with search warrant. I got a lawyer etc, from what I understand I am going to be getting 24-36 months. I was hoping since i was 17 when I did this stupid mistake that they would show some mercy but there not...

>>> Life can sure hand out some hard lessons. It's tough to get caught up in something like you did, but the Govt does not play games. Right or wrong, they play hardball. I once heard an inmate state that he had no problem going to prison. He knew that what he was doing was wrong, he knew that what he was doing could lead to serious prison time - if caught. But he was ok with that. He was making lots of money and was willing to take the risk. He summed it up when he said "Don't play the game unless you know all the rules." Meaning, don't do something that you know is illegal, unless you are willing (to some degree) to take the heat for it. Enough on that.

Gyg

I am going to have to serve 24-36 months and payback 300K in restitution. This is my first time offense for anything. I am not really bad kid, just mad a really dumb mistake

>>> Your life is not over. There will be and end to all of this someday. Use the time to get your life in order. (Spiritually, physically, and mentally). In the end, you can be better for it all. BUT - it is up to you. Your choice, no one elses.

Gyg

Is there anyway to get my federal time lowered or something like that, I know you can get 15% for good behavior.

>>> Not really, outside of some court ordered reduction, your sentence will be just as it is imposed. You are correct in that you will be eligible to earn Good Conduct Time (GCT) for any sentence imposed that is over one year. You will earn 54 days per year 'served'. In some cases, that equals out to 15% off of a sentence, but something around 13 - 14% is a little more accurate.

GCT is the only built in system (it's automatic unless you get into trouble) to shave off time from your sentence. When you are first admitted to the BOP the will calculate your release date with GCT factored in.

Gyg

I heard there is a drug/alchoal program that can get 1 year knocked off. I don't do drugs or drink but I am thinking i should start attending alchoal anonymous classess to get some written proof i have a problem with it...

>>> You are correct again. The BOP offers a Drug Abuse Treatment Program for those inmates with a previously identified/documented substance abuse problem. For those in the program, who successfully complete it, they are 'eligible' for up to a one year reduction off their sentence.

Now here is where you are going to have a problem. It will take more than attending AA to qualify. The BOP will research your case out more than that. You will need, can use, previous arrest records that indicate substance abuse (possession, DWI, DUI, etc.), past treatment program documentation, doctors certification (usually), etc.. The PO who prepares your Presentence Report, will check it all out. IF he can find evidence supporting your claim, then you have a chance. If not, you will not get the year off based on the RDAP program.

Gyg

Also do you think I will be sent to a prison camp?

>>> Probably. Based on what little info you have provided I can find no reason why you would go anywhere else but a camp. I would say that you have about a 97% chance of going to a camp.



Also I read somewhere there is like bootcamps that are only 6 months long or does that not apply to me?

>>> It also appears that you will be eligible for the boot camp program. I suggest that you have your attorney recommend it when the judge actually imposes/issues you your sentence. Regardless, once in BOP custody, you can request it. IF you meet the criteria, then you'll have a good chance at going.

KEEP IN MIND - that it is very tough and is not set up for those with a weak spirit/mind. Very physical. You have to prepare yourself mentally first to make it through.


Any advice would really help!!! I am going nuts thinking about all this...


>>> Advice: Where ever you go, just go in and do your time. At a camp, you do not have to worry about assualts, violence, etc. It can happen, and does on rare occastions, but it is usually when one person has really pushed things too far over an extended period of time. He either missed, or ignored the warnings and then BAM, the fight is on. But all in all, not something to worry about it.

Camps are fairly low key places. You should go in and become invisible. Stay under the radar. Do not attract attention to yourself. This does not mean that you cannot make friend, socialize :) It means mind your own. As Sgt Shultz (spelling) used to say from Hogan's Heros years ago (way before your time) 'I see nothing, I hear nothing'.

That is my advice.

Also, if I haven't already said so. Use the time to get your life in order, back on track, etc. You can use the time to improve yourself (believe it or not) in all areas - spiritually, physically, and mentally. It's your choice. Also, even thought it may seem like forever when you start. You are 18, after serving a 2 or 3 year sentence, you are still VERY VERY young!!! Very young! You will have your whole life ahead of you. A life that has all the potential in the world. Anything and everything will be ahead of you. Don't let this bump in the road screw it all up for you.

Good Luck!!!

Greyghost

HI AND WELCOME TO PTO. I-MYSELF-DO NOT HAVE ANY EXPERIENCE AT ALL WITH THE FED.SYSTEM BUT---MAYBE YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT SOME OF FED-X'S POST---I AM SURE THAT SOMEONE WILL COME ALONG TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS---LOTS OF INFORMATIVE AND SUPPORTIVE PEOPLE ON THIS FORUM!!!

GOOD LUCK!!!

More than likely your going to camp. Since it is your first non violent offense. Getting less time for drug issue will not apply for you. You stated you have no drug problems. They require at least a years of documented abuse to even be considered for the program.

If you don't go to camp stay away from the gangs in prison. Try to keep a low profile if you can. Howver you will get someone to test you soon enough. You must stand up to this individual and fight if not you will become his punk.

Being 18 going to prison isn't the best way to start your life.

Good luck to you.

So there are gangs and pimps in camp? Never heard of that before, although I guess its possible. As far as I have heard its more like some gays that will coax you into sex but only if you are willing. i will likely be eligable for camp as well but i will ask for a low facility because its right by my family and the weather is nicer. nellis is hot as hell, not really interested. i agree with that though, that there will be at least one guy that will mess with you to see if your easy. dont back down and it may be a good idea to brawl with him or at least say some harsh words to him in a public way, like with other inmates around and the guards too so they can break it up if it gets really intense. once you demonstrate you are not taking crap, you should be left alone.

Have you checked into the boot camp option. I know there is only one for women and there are several for men. It may not be close to your home, but if you are physically and mentally able, and a first time offender, you can complete their program and be "home" in 6 months. I am a female and I am 43 and I'm gonna try to go to one! I think the age limit for males is 35, at least that's what I've heard and you're way under that. Ask your attorney about it.

low facility is not AS bad but its still bad. Shouldn't be violence but there going to treat you like shit.

Can anyone give me more info on boot camp? Thats what i am shooting for...

I did something stupid and did 4 1/2 years at FortDix camp looking back it has taught me a ton of things in life that i wouldent have ever known... As far as the Drug program be very careful yes you get a year off but trust me you are labeled a druggie and they keep a tighter rope around your neck... i never used drugs but also was thinking about it when i was in.. looking back im very glad i didnt.. If you need any more info ((PLEASE PM MEMBER. E-DRESS REMOVED PER PTO POLICY.))

YES IS THERE ANYONE THAT CAN TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT FCI FORREST CITY ARKANSAS IVE GOT TO TURN MYSELF IN THERE NEXT WEEK NEVERE BEEN IN JAIL BEFORE SOMEBODY HELP ME . THANKS

ALL I KNOW THATS IS LOW SECURITY