Drug offenders have a choice in Ocala of going to jail or getting a fresh start on life.
The Drug Market Initiative at the Ocala Police Department targets neighborhoods where drug and crime run rampant. Undercover officers gather evidence against those committing drug crimes. But instead of arresting them, some are given a second chance.
OPD qualifies individuals based on their previous records. Those chosen can elect to go through a 9-step program that helps them with education and finding a job.
If the individuals are involved in a drug crime again, they are prosecuted.
Two call-ins have been performed by OPD so far, keeping 10 people out of jail.