Second Chances are for Rich People

The Poor Get Prison: The Alarming Spread of the Criminalization of Poverty

As a society, we are disgusted by “low-class” behavior and throw the most offensive of us in cages, unless they are rich. If they are rich and interesting, we might even place them on the highest of pedestals.

Exhibit A: Charlie Sheen

Charlie Sheen charged with felony in alleged assault on wife in Aspen [Updated]

Charlie Sheen under investigation by LAPD stalking unit for allegedly threatening ex-fiancee

Charlie Sheen trashes room at Plaza Hotel in coke-fueled rampage: sources

Exhibit B: Paris Hilton

Is Paris Hilton the Feminist We Need Now?

The Revision of Paris Hilton's Story Is Missing Something: Her History With the N-Word

Paris Hilton Reveals She Voted for Donald Trump

Paris Hilton apologizes for calling gay men 'disgusting'

Paris Hilton out of Prison

Exhibit C: your cousin, partner, or friend who owned their mistakes and faced the consequences and is now using substances to mask their pain while their life falls apart…

Making the Connection: Trauma and Substance Abuse

What You Need To Know About Ending Cash Bail - Center for American Progress

UN report slams US for criminalizing poverty as destitution grows | DW | 02.06.2018