Detroit Sex Party Busted. Johns Ticketed, Cars Impounded, Mother and Party Hosts Arrested. Troy Police SIU Policy Contrasted.

HERE WE GO AGAIN

It is the latest stark example of how Troy Police Department's putative enforcement method of the Michigan Prostitution statutes: arresting only the alleged prostitute(s) and letting the alleged Johns walk "scot-free" compares to neighboring law enforcement. Even in the often maligned (usually unfairly) City of Detroit, johns and panderers are investigated, arrested, charged and otherwise held accountable for their actions within the city limits. Troy's stated policy is not the policy of neighboring jurisdictions in Michigan. Recently, the Wayne County Sheriff Department SIU, under the leadership of Sheriff Evans, conducted a sting operation against a home and its occupants in Southwest Detroit, Michigan on December 7, 2008. Undercover officers infiltrated the activity - obtained a search warrant (not relying on far flung case law and poorly understood "exceptions" to the 4th Amendment requirement) and effectuated their arrests against the entire operation.

As reported by the Detroit News:
Sheriff: Detroit mom hosted sex party using underage girls
George Hunter / The Detroit News
"DETROIT -- A 39-year-old woman was arrested early this morning after allegedly hosting a sex party that involved two 16-year-old girls -- one of whom was the woman's daughter -- and 19 prostitutes. The woman charged $15 cover charge for the party in her home on Cherrylawn near Curtis on Detroit's west side, Wayne County Sheriff Warren Evans said. ***
Evans said officers who executed the search warrant were surprised to find out the mother of one of the underage girls was hosting the party. *** When officers raided the home, they found the two underage girls dancing partially nude. There were about 20 adult men inside the home; in addition to the $15 cover charge, they paid whatever each prostitute charged for sex, Evans said. It is not clear whether either of the underage girls were offering sex for money. 'It's pretty safe to assume that it would have lead to (prostitution) eventually in that environment," Evans said. "Thankfully, we were able to shut this party down before things got that far.' Most of the prostitutes and johns were ticketed and released, but the girl's mother was arrested, as were three men who were involved in operating the party, Evans said. All face charges of Operating a House of Illegal Occupation, but the mother likely will face additional charges. *** Police also confiscated three handguns and marijuana, ecstasy pills and heroin, along with several hundred dollars in cash. The money is believed to be proceeds from the party. Approximately 10 vehicles also were impounded." You can reach George Hunter at (313) 222-2134 or ghunter@detnews.com.

Of course, many critics have argued that Troy SIU would never have allowed a "little person" to walk away after confessing to their crime as they did Thomas Athans on February 26, 2008, however, it should be noted that Troy SIU conducted a similar raid to their February 26, 2008, operation in May 2008, and in that instance released the johns "scot free" and arrested and charged the two alleged prostitutes.

In a bizarre, shameful and inappropriate twist, the police proudly displayed tables to the television media festooned with condoms and lubricants, reminiscent of displays when a large drug cache seizure had taken place. Mothers throughout the broadcast area of the local network (WDIV) were left to explain to their small children the meaning of the artistically arranged sex items, displayed as if merchandised for sale. The poor judgment of this action was reinforced by the poor judgment of the television media, which broadcast the ill conceived public relations fiasco.

The Wayne County Sheriff Department should be congratulated on their raid. This operation was a job well done. Responsible law enforcement was conducted in a logical, reasonable and efficient manner. Next the judicial system will sort things out for the well being of these prostituted women, proceed in the forfeiture of the automobiles involved, deal with, punish and educate the johns, and look after the underage 16 year old daughter, rather then officers at the scene dispensing "street justice" and letting the johns go "scot free" in their cars and home to their families.

Warren Police Department Takes Lead in Law Enforcement for Region - October 16, 2008 Sting: Alleged Pimp, Johns and Prostitutes Arrested and Charged

September 8, 2009 UPDATE
Defendant Miguel Elizondo is scheduled for sentencing on October 7, 2009. Click here for link to Docket Calendar 2009-001825-FH PEOPLE vs. ELIZONDO, MIGUEL A, Hon. Peter J. Maceroni presiding.

Earlier this year, the City of Warren which neighbors Troy, Michigan, took steps to enforce the statutes of Michigan relative to prostitution in their community. After personally viewing the situation with patrolling police officers, Mayor Jim Fouts concluded - as have most reasonable observers - the myth that prostitution is a "victimless crime" is a dangerous misconception for a normal, socially conscientious and healthy community.

Unlike the City of Troy Police Department's seriously flawed handling of the Thomas Athans/Alycia Martin case, and the "special" handling of the Elliott Spitzer/Ashley Dupre case in New York (with contacts taking place in Washington, D.C.) Mayor Jim Fouts and the Warren Police undercover officers took on the entire operation in their sting, not just the targetting the vulnerable woman being prostituted, as in the Alycia Martin case. It should be noted that most critics of the Troy Police Department's handling of the Martin case agree: if the women are doing illegal activities, then they should be prosecuted, but to release the johns "scot-free" is morally wrong and sends the wrong message. Law enforcement must enforce all the laws against violators irrespective of wealth, social standing, or political influence. If the failure to charge Thomas Athans and release him to drive on a suspended license is perceived as wrong and a "double standard," then failure to vigorously and actively pursue the pimp and handlers is reprehensible, outrageous and shameful.

It is posited by the Troy Police Department that the physical arrest, and filing of charges against the prostituted 20 year old girl; hitting her with forfeiture proceeding (taking all her money); and publicizing her identity, while not arresting or ticketing the alleged john, is somehow going to magically force or encourage the cooperation and testimony by young girl against the pimp handler. In this so called police methodology, the admitted john is joked with and befriended, told not to worry, and treated deferentially. The prostituted woman is searched, arrested, processed, charged, and prosecuted. When examined objectively, this pretext is shamefully false, especially in light of a neighboring jurisdiction's commitment to traditional enforcement techniques.

Dilligent police work seems to work successfully in Warren, Michigan, yet is "impossibly difficult" in neighboring Troy. Special Investigations Division's efforts in the Warren Police Department resulted in the following arrests, hardly a failure by any standards:

(Excerpted from Warren Police Department Web Site)
"Warren Mayor Jim Fouts is publishing the names of individuals arrested for such crimes on the city’s Web site and in the future, on TV Warren cable channels. October 17, 2008, Commissioner William Dwyer announces that in a continuing effort to stop prostitution within the city of Warren, officers of the Warren Police Special Investigation Division arrested nine subjects. This sting operation occurred on October 16, 2008 at a local hotel in the city of Warren. The females arrested in this incident all reside in the tri-county area and charged anywhere from $150-$250 an hour for their services.As a result of this operation the following individuals were arrested and warrant requests were presented to the Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office. After reviewing the files, the Macomb County Prosecutor’s authorized the following:

ROBERTA ANTIONETTE LOBERT, a 34-year-old Sterling Heights resident, was arraigned on a two-count misdemeanor warrant charging her with: Count 1: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor, and Count 2: Use of the Internet in commission of a crime, one-year misdemeanor.

KATRINA LYNN SAHABI, a 21-year-old West Bloomfield resident, was arraigned on a two-count misdemeanor warrant charging her with:Count 1: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor, and Count 2: Use of the Internet in commission of a crime, one-year misdemeanor.

CELESTE MARIE VALASTEK, a 27-year-old Memphis resident, was arraigned on a three-count misdemeanor warrant charging her with:Count 1: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor,Count 2: Conspiracy to commit Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor, andCount 3: Use of the Internet in commission of a crime, one-year misdemeanor.

MARIE ALLEN THOMPSON, a 25-year-old White Lake resident, was arraigned on a three-count misdemeanor warrant charging her with:Count 1: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor,Count 2: Conspiracy to commit Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor, and Count 3: Use of the Internet in commission of a crime, one-year misdemeanor.

SHANNON NICOLE HENDERSON, a 29-year-old Detroit resident, was arraigned on a three-count misdemeanor warrant charging her with:Count 1: Prostitution, a 93-day misdemeanor,Count 2: Use of the Internet in commission of a crime, one-year misdemeanor and Count 3: Driving on a Suspended License, a one-year misdemeanor.

WENDELL POLK, a 36-year-old Detroit resident, was arraigned on a four-count misdemeanor warrant charging him with:Count 1: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor,Count 2: Conspiracy to commit Prostitution, one-year misdemeanor,Count 3: Possession of Marijuana, one-year misdemeanor, and Count 4: Operating a motor vehicle without a driver’s license, 93-day misdemeanor

MICHAEL DWAYNE EDMONDS, a 47-year-old Southgate resident, was arraigned on a two-count misdemeanor warrant charging him with:Count 1: Prostitution, 93 day misdemeanor, and Count 2: Conspiracy to commit Prostitution, one-year misdemeanor.

MIGUEL ANTONIO ELIZONDO, a 43-year-old Southgate resident, was arraigned on a three-count warrant charging him with:Count 1: Accepting earnings from Prostitution, a twenty-year felony,Count 2: Prostitution, 93-day misdemeanor, and Count 3: Conspiracy to commit Prostitution, one-year misdemeanor.
*****
Officers also seized five vehicles pending forfeiture proceedings, along with $696.00 in cash, several cell phones, a laptop computer and a digital camera.Commissioner William Dwyer states, “This type of criminal activity will not be accepted nor tolerated in the city of Warren. The Warren Police Department is committed to the investigation and prosecution of any individuals who participate in this criminal enterprise.” http://www.cityofwarren.org/default.asp?area_2=police/prostitution.dat&area_7=nav/police.dat&area_5=police/right.dat&objectid=C27B0E0&ml_index=13&NC=3466X
Case in point: The Warren Police managed to arrest all participants and charged an alleged panderer with the 20 year felony.

This operation is true law enforcement of the statutes, and the City of Warren and it's Police Department should be commended for a job well done as leaders for the region as they "strive" to address the issue in their community.

Sadly, one the alleged prostitutes arrested in this sting operation has passed away. It is the point and argument of this blog that prostituted women caught up in this industry should be helped, not punished, and treated with compassion and dignity. Accordingly, at the request of her family and friends, her photograph and references to her have been removed from this blog. Law enforcement should focus their resources on the predators of these young women, the "johns" and the "sex industrialists." Her loss is a loss to every responsible and conscientious citizen.

Where police and responsible members of the citizenry neglect or fail to act, prostituted women are victims, drained of life and hope. One can hardly imagine that a woman would "choose" this life. The only choice usually is to choose to live and not be homeless, hungry, and alone. Likewise, Johns, if forced to face the consequence of their actions, educated, and their activities publicized would not continue their use of other human beings for their selfish needs and gratification. Investigation, arrest and prosecution the predatory pimps, handlers, bottoms and security members of the ring would, as believed by most reasonable observers, comprehensively address this criminal activity. Arresting only the prostituted woman hardly seems to scratch the surface. Both the demand end (the john/user) and the supply distribution end (the pimp) are left untouched. It is disgraceful where only the prostituted person (the product) it targeted for arrest and prosecution.

All jurisdictions in Southeastern Michigan should follow the lead set by the City of Warren Police Department.

COMMENTS ABOUT THIS CASE

Since the creation of this blog, there have been a series of comments left which express a belief that prostitution is a career choice, and that it should be decriminalized as in Europe. It should be noted that all comparisons to European laws, systems of government, and political processes for purposes of effecting social policy change is not an American tradition and should not be. What I mean by this is that this country, and the New World generally, was founded as the antithesis of the European model. In fact, the United States has been the progressive engine of paradigms for all social, political, and economic solutions for European nations, not the other way around. All one need do is ask a grandparent or any naturalized American citizen about the "old country."

Citizens of the United States should question how the European political elite treat the lower class members of their population. Should a woman be forced to become a prostitute to avoid losing government unemployment benefits? Yes, that is how Europe now deals with it's unemployed women. This is a fact and well documented. http://fathersforlife.org/feminism/chastity_is_a_crime.htm

Of course, most people who have seriously looked at the phenomenon of prostitution reject Europe's misguided public policies and realize that it simply the exploitation of women, and usually imported third world nation women.
Another aspect of this case which has struck this writer most profoundly is the willingness, even eagerness, of some persons to judge Alycia Martin. Some comments have been vitriolic, and in extreme circumstances, actually rationalize the motivations of the users of these women. The comments relative to Alycia have ranged from, "she made her choice," to "she deserves what she gets." It appears that the commentators' perspective is that Alycia or any person, male or female, similarly situated has "chosen" to be where they are, and therefore, no one should care about what becomes of them. Additionally, there has been regionalism interjected, i.e. Westland a/k/a/ "Wasteland" is where the "trash" of Southeastern Michigan resides. Finally, there is the opinion that Alycia is responsible for the alleged actions of Thomas Athans and that the embarrassment caused to Senator Stabenow is Alycia's fault. A far more progressive approach is that taken by defense counsel and his wife. The young woman should be given help to break out. Alycia Martin, or any person similarly situated, deserves a chance at a dignified fulfilling life, period.
To condemn a person to a life of sexual servitude by accident of birth is unconscionable and UN-AMERICAN. Few of these critics know what it is actually like to be emotionally and economically adrift. When a person has no place to live and drifts from home to home of friends, acquaintances and near strangers in order to eat and stay warm, they make a "choice" to eat, stay warm and survive. In an arrest record in Wayne Michigan, Alycia was arrested on an outstanding warrant in a house which was in foreclosure. There are thousands of these homes where the owners just walked away. The report indicates that a half dozen young people were living in the abandoned house. Again, the need for shelter, particularly in sub zero weather is a "choice" few have had to make. The range of human experience is a finite bandwith, there are thousands of young people, "throw aways" living under these circumstances. Some would consciously "chose" to ignore them. If they are young and attractive, they are quickly assimilated into the sex industry as strippers, escorts, or prostitutes.

On the issue of being an exotic dancer, many persons have adjudged Alycia of moral turpitude. However, as any person with more education and job skills knows looking for a job in Southeastern Michigan knows, it is difficult and practically impossible to find any work. If you would like proof of this fact, put an ad on http://www.craigslist.com/ for any employment position, and you will receive literally hundreds of emails of local men and women out of work. Since her arrest on February 26, 2008, Alycia has had not contacts with law enforcement. Alycia has only been able to find part-time work in fast food. Granted there is a choice made. However, if the menu is limited such as the popular dollar menu at McDonalds, how much choice does one really have? Why the critic would ask, does she not eat steak like the rest of us? Of course, not widely publicized is the fact that Alycia has chosen not to be a dancer anymore. She has "chosen" to have little or no money, and live in poverty. This writer does not disagree with her choice, since it is this writer's humble opinion that it is better to have self-respect and dignity than all the riches in the world.
A "Gentleman's Club" is a linguistic paradox. The men who frequent strip bars are not by definition "well-mannered and considerate men with high standards of proper behavior." Strip clubs are, no matter what apologists might argue, covers for prostitution and pseudo-prostitution activities. The patrons, or "Johns" are usually loners that have difficulty forming and sustaining meaningful relationships. Additionally, dancers are groomed for future use in the prostitution industry. Included in the grooming process is the use of pseudonyms and "stage names" and the intense competition between young women for tips. The further a girl will go in debasing herself the more desirable she becomes to the "regular customers." The process slowly disarms and strips the young woman of her identity, inhibitions and moral compass. In a totally sociopathic and destructive environment, everyone involved, owners, dancers and customers all believe they are taking advantage of everyone else involved. The owners of the clubs, such as the strip club in the "Sopranos" HBO series, are little more then pimps and criminals acting under color of legitimate business enterprises.

Interestingly, there is tremendous concern, and considerable resources expended, at the Federal level combating the trafficking in young women from foreign countries, but little concern for the servitude of American citizens at "gentleman's clubs." Literally, millions of dollars are taken from the individual dancers by pimps, handlers and "boyfriends." One case prosecution ended in 2007, and occurred right here in Detroit.

In that case, two young Ukrainian women were tricked into the country with promises of waitress jobs in Virginia, then forced to dance at a strip club on 8 Mile Road named Cheetahs. Over $2 million dollars was ordered in restitution by a Federal Judge after taking proofs of the amounts of money taken pursuant to the "quotas" set by their captors. The defense had argued that they "voluntarily" worked, but in the face of the evidence collected by the FBI, pled guilty and were sentenced to long prison terms.

"They forced me to work six days a week for 12 hours a day," the 22 year old woman said of the men who made her work at Cheetah's in Detroit. "I could not refuse to go to work or I would be beaten." While she was forced to dance at the strip club, she said she was not made to be a prostitute."I was their slave," she said in testimony before the House Judiciary Committee and its chairman, Detroit Democrat John Conyers. The committee is looking at reauthorizing the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, which was intended to stiffen penalties for people engaging in human trafficking and make it easier for victims to get temporary visas..

When arrested, the defendants were found to have had over $500,000 in cash in their house and over $1 million dollars in safety deposit boxes. http://blog.kievukraine.info/2007/11/ukraine-woman-forced-to-dance-at-strip.html. As in the case of the Ukrainian girls, only when the woman is secure and self-assured, is she deprogrammed and begins to recount the truth of her former condition. Escape only became possible when a patron they could trust was approached and took them to the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service and the FBI became involved. Michail Aronov, a Lithuanian national who lived in Livonia and the Chicago area, was sentenced to 7 1/2 years in prison in August and ordered to pay $1 million in restitution to his victims.Another man, Aleksandr Maksimenko, a naturalized U.S. citizen from Ukraine who also lived in Livonia, was sentenced to 14 years in prison and ordered to pay $1.5 million in restitution. This concern is for these foreign women, however, identical patterns exist:

"I wish our language [about trafficking] could change," Carr said. "Saying someone is a prostitute denotes a choice. These women were prostituted. They were held against their will." But when authorities talk about prostitution, Carr [Law Professor at Notre Dame University] said, they fail to specify that many of the women were prostitutes under duress. "They do not mean [to say] that these women chose to do it as a profession," she said. An advocate for human trafficking victims since meeting Katya, Carr said she is currently working on a number of other trafficking cases. http://media.www.ndsmcobserver.com/media/storage/paper660/news/2007/12/05/News/Professor.Discusses.Sex.Slavery.On.Nbc-3133535.shtml

There seems little or no interest that an entire generation of American working class' female children are being swept up into working as dancers, escorts and prostitutes because of their socio-economic status.

"The defendants in this case took advantage of innocent women from Eastern Europe by enticing them to come the United States and then holding them in bondage for commercial and sexual exploitation,” said U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Murphy. “In sentencing Mr. Maksimenko to 14 years in prison, the Court underscored the gravity of this type of crime. Criminal operations involving human trafficking, such as this one, will be pursued with the greatest vigor by my office." "Human trafficking, as exemplified in this case, is nothing short of modern-day slavery,” said Wan J. Kim, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice is committed to vigorously prosecuting these crimes wherever they occur.”

Why does your Federal Government, and a University of Notre Dame Law Professor care so deeply about two foreign women while tens of thousands of American young women are systematically tricked, brainwashed, beaten, and sexually slaved in strip clubs all over the country? The Feds would counter that it is up to State and local law enforcement.

Alycia Martin's case is an exemplar how the local law enforcement deals with a similar situation. City of Troy Police perceptions of proper law enforcement are so distorted, and so perverse, that women actually prostituted are targeted for arrest and prosecution and the johns and pimps are unscathed, inconvenienced or bothered. To make the travesty complete, even a confessed John such as Thomas Athans is allowed to drive away after his suspended driver's license is confirmed and actually discussed at the scene of the stop.

The John confessed, orally on video tape and in writing, and was, in accordance with Official Police Policy in Troy, Michigan, not arrested and charged. Even more disturbing is the failure of the detectives involved to request for an arrest warrant for the fully identified (and recognized by the assistant hotel manager) pimp, the very person who according to in court testimony rented the hotel room on February 25, 2008, and a different room in July 2007 for prostitution of an african-american female. There is no reasonable explanation here for this dereliction of duty and countenance of criminal activity; just a stark misogynist double standard, or special treatment for Thomas Athans because he is rich and powerful. Troy police deny the later. Finally, the Police Chief, Troy City Attorney, County Prosecutor, State Attorney General, all aware of the facts of this case, acquiesced and refused to charge the John or the pimp.

To drive the point home, Troy police conducted raids again on May 8, 2008 at the Hilton Hotel in Troy, Michigan and again released the johns and charged the women. Assuming that these raids were not just a cover or misdirection for being called on giving Athans' total pass on Febrary 26, 2008, it seems it is the City of Troy's Public Policy to briefly detain the Johns, not prosecute pimps, and prosecute the hapless prostituted woman in a kind of "John heaven." http://www.cityoftroypolice.com/alerts_tips/alerts/2008/may/5-16-08.htm

Alycia Martin's experience as a dancer was no different then the Ukrainian girls. Yet, neither the Federal Governemnt agents or any Notre Dame law professors came to her assistance. Martin is an American citizen, yet her story, unfortunately, is so common and mundane that it does not merit attention or enforcement by peace officers. Even if a girl decides to dance for the easy money, how long before the girl is asked to take the next step? Granted a tiny fraction may not succumb, but the vast majority of young women will lose their bearings and submit. Most do not work their way through college and graduate school by being strippers. I have never met a doctor, lawyer, or college professor that was a stripper to achieve their professional goals.

When someone tells some fairy tale to the contrary, I ask myself whether this is what the girl told him at a "gentleman's club." More plausible is that it is merely a myth or urban legend used to dissuade critics and law enforcement from demanding strict compliance with the law and assuage the conscience of a society that allows the exploitation of impoverished and desperate women.

Macomb County Sheriff Undercover Raid Nets Madame - Arrested and Charged

Monday, January 12, 2009
Charles E. Ramirez / The Detroit News

"MOUNT CLEMENS -- Police said today they have shut down a prostitution ring operating out of a beauty salon in nearby Harrison Township. Officers have arrested and charged two women, Macomb County Sheriff Mark Hackel said today. Police arrested the women on Thursday during an undercover investigation into the Four Seasons salon and spa at Metropolitan Parkway and Crocker Boulevard, he said. Complaints from several Harrison Township residents prompted the investigation, according to police.
In yet another example of comprehensive law enforcement, undercover officers arrested and charged the higher up in the "prostitution ring" not just the prostituted woman. "Hackel identified the women as Yun Ok Shin, 48, of Rochester Hills and Ji Fu Xu, 49, of Harrison Township. Shin was arraigned in 41-B District Court on Friday on two charges: keeping a house of prostitution, a five-year felony, and admitting to a place of prostitution, a 93-day misdemeanor. A judge set her bond at $5,000. "

Meanwhile, Xu was arraigned on a count of prostitution, a 93-day misdemeanor. Her bond was set at $1,000.

Special Thanks to a Troy Michigan Resident

Alycia Martin is pictured at right in a photograph with the children of a close friend in the Commonwealth of Massachusett before losing herself to falsehoods and lies of others. Alycia continues her recovery physically, emotionally, spiritually and loves children. Alycia hopes to start a family of her own after reuniting with a former boyfriend and veteran of the U.S. Navy and Iraq War.

Alycia wanted to thank the residents of Troy which have stepped forward, emailed, wrote to the local newspapers, and written their City officials about her case, and women similiarly situated in the Troy Police Department's "sting operations." Today, November 3, 2008, a resident of Troy, Michigan donated towards Alycia's education fund. Attorney Cusumano wrote to this individual the following thank you letter:

"Thank you for your generous donation of $100. I have established a completely segregated Pay Pal Account and linked it to a segregated and separate IOLTA client trust account for the purpose of funding Alycia's education expenses. In the next few days I will "accept" the donation and it will remain in the Pay Pal Account until being formally transfered into the IOLTA account for disbursement for Alycia's GED education expense. Important: In the event that I am unable raise enough money for the purpose of funding Alycia's GED review course or get her enrolled in the Cosmetology school (she needs a GED to enroll), I will be transferring the money back to Pay pal and refunding your donation. Therefore, it is important that I be advised via email of any change in your pay pal account address. In the event you used a credit card, or the address is not valid, I will email you to advise you of the status. This donation is being treated as a donation for the express purpose of Aycia's education, and for no other purposes, i.e. such a paying utility bills. Unfortunately, to date you are the first and only contributor to this fund raising effort. Several attorneys associated with UDM Law School and SS Peter & Paul Church, SJ., had helped in reviewing her Court filings, one woman attorney donated clothes, and my wife and I have helped with purchase of clothes, groceries, and transportation to and from Court. Otherwise, this young woman (she is totally destitute) has been figuratively orphaned by her parents and family (except he sister who is of extremely limited means financially) both emotionally and financially. I suppose this would somewhat explain her plight and falling into a false family/friend environment. In all the time I represented Alycia her father, although in town twice and fully aware of her situation, never called or inquired of me her status or well being. Thank you again on her behalf. On behalf of Alycia, heartfelt thanks. This young woman has so much more to contribute to the world then the role which she was cast by men like Thomas Athans and "Dewayne" (or whatever alias he calls himself now) and your kindness in helping her is more important then you could imagine. I truly believe that there are people in the world willing and able to help if given the information and opportunity. Thank you for validating this for me. "

Alycia Martin - Looks Forward to Voting in the Presidential Election

November 4, 2008 - Voting in her First Presidential Election Just Around the Corner.

On November 4, 2008, Alycia Martin is the day that Alycia Martin appears before the 52-4 District Court Judge on her Motion to Modify Sentence. Alycia is asking the Court to reduce her sentence to time served or convict her on the reduced trespassing charge and end her probation.

November 4, 2008, is also election day.

Thanks to having her Michigan drivers license, and hence voter registration, Alycia is able to vote for the very first time in her life! Several early posts pictured Alycia at the Secretary of State Office in Detroit, Michigan studying the written portion of her license test.

Alycia is thankful for all the assistance the staff at the SOS office at Evergreen and 7 Mile Road, Detroit, Michigan in helping understand the complex matrix of identification papers and verification she needed to get her driver's license and be able to vote. After four trips, she had all the paper work, and realized that nothing is easy, but in the end the wait is worthwhile.

Alycia is very excited about participating in the election of the next President of the United States. Alycia is catching up on all the things most of us take for granted, such as driving legally and voting. Fear of being arrested is no longer a constant on her mind, since she is clear of all cases except the Troy case. Each day brings Alycia closer towards the goal to be the woman she was meant to be, not what others wanted to make her into.

These are hard times economically, but also times of hope for the future for Alycia, and she is thankful for the many blessings in her life.

Recent Articles, Posts, and News: Alycia Martin

Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Woman arrested in sex sting asks judge to end case
Jennifer Chambers / The Detroit News
TROY -- The woman arrested in a prostitution sting involving the spouse of U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow has no money to comply with the terms of her probation and is asking a judge to close her case.

Alycia Martin is unemployed, receives no financial support from her family and has no money to pay for drug and alcohol screens, monthly probation fees for her case or for the gasoline to get to the court-ordered appointments, her lawyer Frank Cusumano Jr. said.

Martin, arrested Feb. 26 at the Residence Inn and charged with prostitution, was allowed to plead guilty to the lesser charge of trespassing. Troy District Court Judge William Bolle placed Martin, who was 20 at the time of the offense, on probation under the state's Youthful Trainee Act, which allows her criminal record to become nonpublic if she completes six months of probation.

Compliance with the random screens, monthly probation fees and fuel expenses will cost Martin $745 over the six-month probationary period. If Martin -- who is more than five months pregnant -- cannot pay for the drug tests, Cusumano says, she risks violating probation and going to jail.

"Ms. Martin does not want to go to jail, especially pregnant," Cusumano wrote in a motion to the court requesting that Martin's probation be shortened from six months to time served.
Cusumano also is asking the judge to consider the alternatives of allowing Martin to pay the fees at the end of the case or to revoke her Youthful Trainee Act status and sentence her immediately.

Troy City Attorney Lori Bluhm said she had no objections to the requests.

Martin's case made national headlines when Stabenow's husband, Thomas Athans, was questioned and released as part of the investigation into a prostitution ring at the Troy hotel.
Athans, who was pulled over by Troy police the night of Feb. 26, admitted to officers during a traffic stop that he met a woman online and paid her $150 for oral sex at the hotel. Troy police learned Athans had a suspended driver's license but released him without arrest, expecting his cooperation in the criminal case against Martin.

Athans was never charged in the case and never testified. Martin, whose lawyers attempted to get the case dismissed, did not provide police information on whom she worked for.
Martin's motion is to be heard Nov. 4.

You can reach Jennifer Chambers at (248) 647-7402 or jchambers@detnews.com.

OTHER LINKS

http://www.experienceproject.com/uw.php?e=348668

http://www.nydailynews.com/opinions/2008/07/26/2008-07-26_in_prostitution_raids_lets_remember_men_-2.html

Celebrity Insider - Photos And News: Alycia Martin Causes Heartache To Senator

http://www.alyciamartin.blogspot.com/

Open Letter to People of Southeastern Michigan

I am willing to work, and I am not looking for a hand out. I want to work. I want to be proud that I can do it on my own. I am just having trouble finding a job in this economy so I thought maybe someone out there knows a place that is hiring or has a business that could use a dedicated, reliable and honest young woman. I "have" to work vs. just working. When you "have" to work you always show up cause you can't afford not to.The City of Troy has me paying probation oversight fees of $300 that I am already behind on. Judge Bolle ordered drug testing and I have passed the tests, but they charge $25 per test, and I did not have enough money for gas to get to Troy, so I was charged $45 for the last test closer. I told my probation officer, and now the lab is charging me on account for the tests. I am going to owe alot when this is over, if Judge Bolle doesn't just violate me for not paying the fees. I don't want to go to jail again, but if I can't find a job, the Judge in Troy will probably find me in violation of probation and I'll be sent to jail.I am trying to better myself, not sell myself. I will not resort to selling drugs or my body, or anything illegal. I am honest and hard working. If you can help me with employment I can guarantee you will not regret it. I have experience in many areas and I am willing to do what it takes to prove myself in this society and economy. Please contact me if you can find it in your heart to extend a job not a hand out, I am not a charity, please don't get me wrong, I am simply trying to work for what I have and basic needs. I am not looking for a gift. Any job leads can be directed to my attorney at frankcusumanojr@gmail.com.

Ypsilanti's Response to Prostitution - Enforce Laws Equally Against Johns and Prostitutes and Provide Services To Get Prostitutes Off the Streets.

Ypsilanti Township steps up prostitution crackdown

by Tom Gantert The Ann Arbor News
Sunday October 19, 2008, 8:15 AM
LEISA THOMPSON THE ANN ARBOR NEWS

During stings conducted from April 18 to Oct. 2, more than 20 prostitution arrests were made at the corner of East Michigan Avenue and Johnson Road in Ypsilanti Township.
Along East Michigan Avenue in Ypsilanti Township, business owners say prostitutes are part of the landscape.

They loiter, day and night, waiting for men to stop and pick them up.
Vinay Lakhnkia said he got so fed up that he banned known prostitutes from his business, A&W Party Store, because they solicited customers. Last year, Lakhnkia said, prostitution was rampant on East Michigan Avenue. "It was like ants," he said.

But earlier this year, Ypsilanti Township officials took aim at the problem, using an approach that includes arresting prostitutes and their customers, as well as providing services to get prostitutes off the streets.

*******

"You know where there is a prostitute, there is a dope guy," Hage said. "The dope goes with it."
Radzik said the township's efforts center on enforcement and follow-up.
Undercover sting operations are nothing new. But taking aim at the "johns" and trying to help the prostitutes is a different approach.

When deputies catch men soliciting prostitutes - or undercover female deputies posing as streetwalkers - they confiscate their vehicles. For $750 and a promise not to return, police will agree not to go forward with civil forfeiture proceedings to permanently take the car, Radzik said."

*****

Glynnis Anderson, director of Home of New Visions, regularly visits the county jail to meet with as many as 10 women being held on prostitution charges.
Anderson assesses which women most need housing and mental health counseling and reports her findings to the court.

Home of New Visions offers six-month and 12-month programs, individual and group therapy, and temporary housing.

Anderson said three former prostitutes are in the program.

"Prior to what we are doing now, they would be back on the strip prostituting again," Anderson said.

Full story at http://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/index.ssf/2008/10/ypsilanti_township_steps_up_pr.html

Alycia and Cousin Jacob Christmas 2007

Unfortunately the reality, often forgotten by people in the media and "media buffs" which follow certain cases they consider salacious or "newsworthy," is that people like Alycia caught up in the "news cycle" are real people, with families and lives. The circumstances of Alycia Martin's arrest and criminal case, when put into this perspective, are not really that important.

Despite all the issues of the past, and lost contact, her relatives still made contact with attorney Cusumano. Alycia's Aunt Karen requested that a scan picture of Alycia and her cousin Jacob be put on this page.

To love and be loved is what brings joy to the heart.

The picture is from Christmas 2007.

New York Daily News Article, July 26, 2008

In prostitution raids, let's remember men break the law, too
BY ANGELA BONAVOGLIA
Saturday, July 26th 2008, 6:18 PM
Last week yet another Manhattan prostitution ring was busted. Operating out of the reportedly "posh," "plush" and "swanky" Hot Lap Dance Club, the operation run by lawyer Louis Posner catered to the last survivors of a crashing economy, the attorneys and Wall Streeters willing to pay up to $5,000 for some private time with the club's dancers.
A raid on the club's W. 38th St. loft headquarters netted 21 people, including Posner, his wife and 19 other club employees on charges ranging from money laundering to promoting prostitution. Among those arrested were four female dancers.
What was most interesting about this sting is that report after report simply stated that "no client was arrested," "no customer was cuffed." Period. No story detailed why no johns were nabbed, or even explained who the johns were or what they were doing during the raid.
Like so much of the handling of prostitution in the U.S., this latest legal sledgehammer landed nowhere near the protected heads of the johns who keep these businesses afloat.
Since buying sex is just as illegal as selling it in New York City, the johns should not get off scot-free.
In New York City, arrests for prostitution and loitering for purposes of prostitution are made at twice the rate of arrests for patronizing a prostitute. And while more than 50% of those prostitution charges result in convictions, a mere 5% of charges for patronizing do.
The picture is the same or worse nationally. And the women arrested have long included girls under the age of 18. While underage girls are forbidden by law to even consent to sex, they are charged as prostitutes and imprisoned, even as the men who pay to have sex with them - often fully aware and even turned on by the fact that they're underage - rarely set foot in a criminal court. It's time for Gov. Paterson to change this situation and sign the Safe Harbor Act, which would put young girls picked up for prostitution into social programs instead of being arrested.
Doing so would offer these minors a chance at a better life, and would prove to New Yorkers that Paterson cannot be swayed by the position of Mayor Bloomberg, who asserts the only way to keep kids safe and to prevent them from running away from programs is to keep them locked up. And the Safe Harbor Act would be a good complement to New York's new anti-trafficking law, which increased patronizing a prostitute from a Class B to a Class A misdemeanor carrying a maximum one-year prison sentence.
In 1979, Mayor Ed Koch ordered the city-owned radio station WNYC to read the names of convicted johns in a segment he called "The John Hour." While it didn't last, it was at least an attempt to level the playing field.
New York is not alone. A review of prostitution arrests in California's Sacramento County revealed an alarming gender bias. According to arrest data compiled by Sacramento Bee reporters Phillip Reese and Ryan Lillis over three months, Sacramento city police and county sheriff's deputies arrested 210 prostitutes but only two of their customers.
The extraordinarily sexist state of affairs reached its zenith recently when Thomas Athans, husband of Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), was observed by cops entering and leaving a hotel in Troy, Mich., that was under surveillance for prostitution. Athans confessed to paying $150 for oral sex. Athans, 47, was not arrested. The 21-year-old prostitute was. Adding insult to injury, Athans was expected to testify against the woman at her evidentiary hearing! She pleaded guilty, and Athans never had to appear.
In some states, johns can go to john school in exchange for having their arrest records expunged, an option not routinely available to women convicted of prostitution.
After the Hot Lap Dance Club raid, the door to the club was padlocked. According to one report, a "disappointed young customer" standing outside said that the place was "f-----' awesome," and that it was "the greatest establishment."
You have to wonder if he would have felt that way if he were spending the night behind bars.
Bonavoglia, who writes about women's issues, is the author of "Good Catholic Girls: How Women are Leading the Fight to Change the Church."

Alycia Martin Sentenced - HYTA Probation Six Month Term

Alycia Martin was sentenced on August 12, 2008, on the Troy City ordinance violation of trespassing. Judge Bolle of the 52-4 District Court granted Alycia's attorney's Motion to have her sentenced her under the Holmes Youthful Trainee Act, which allows a defendant to be assigned "youthful trainee" status if the offense was committed before the Defendant's 21st birthday. Alycia was given six months and cannot leave the state other then to attend her father's wedding in Las Vegas, NV. She must also continue her education and seek and maintain employment.

Although not required to speak before her sentencing, Alycia accepted responsibility for her actions in Court. Alycia continues to heal physically, spiritually and emotionally, and the process of accepting responsibility was another major step. Thomas Athans, on the other hand, was not required to appear in Court, face charges, or ever accept responsibility publicly, compliments of the Troy Police Department. In the video clip below, Alycia is asked about her thoughts about the refusal of the Troy Police to arrest, detain or inconvenience Athans. Alycia states that she has forgiven those involved, including the Troy Police involved, and "does not care" about the special treatment afforded Athans.

The picture above was taken just before sentencing. On Alycia's right arm is the bracelet which Julianne Cusumano gave her which reads, "Ask. Believe. Receive." Alycia has never taken this bracelet off since Julianne gave it to her. After sentencing, a tearful Alycia spoke to members of the media. A video clip from Fox 2 Detroit's Taryn Asher is below. Upon completion for the probationary term, this charge will be dismissed with no public record of the arrest or prosecution. Alycia looks forward to rebuilding her life. Alycia is thankful to Judge Bolle (Troy), Judge Faunce (Warren), and Judge Mack (Wayne) and for the thoughts and prayers of those who have followed her case. Her hopes are to continue to live in Southeastern Michigan which she loves.

Michigan does not have a safety net for young people such as Alycia, either privately or publicly funded. In Toledo, OH. the University of Toledo has worked with the University of Michigan to establish "Second Chance," and Portland, Oregon has the Lola Greene Baldwin Foundation. Any persons interested in helping attorney Frank Cusumano, Jr. organize a foundation or non-profit for this purpose, should contact attorney Cusumano at frankcusumano@msn.com.

Click the following link for more information: http://www.change.org/changes/view/2632

Ironically, if Alycia was a few years younger, there would be federal funds and law enforcement action taken against the pimps and handlers, since there are federally funded programs for the protection of minors accused of prostitution.

Julianne Cusumano - Attended Every Hearing in Support of Alycia

Julianne Cusumano, Attorney Cusumano's wife of 18 years attended every hearing in support of Alycia.

Julianne is protective of Alycia and when Alycia was being hounded by the media and actually struck with a micophone to the face, stepped in shield Alycia from the assault. Julianne is a unique woman, "one in three billion" with whom Attorney Cusumano has four daughters and one son.

Julianne has given advice and counsel to Alycia, and just as important, has talked with her about everyday issues and topics apart from the case. Yes, there is a world out there outside this case, which Alycia lives, and Julianne has kept these facts in perspective and focus.

Job Search and GED Goal Continues

On July 25, 2008, and July 30, 2008, Alycia filled out job applications in bars and restaurants for any available positions as a server near the sports stadiums and arenas in downtown Detroit. Attorney Cusumano drove her there. Alycia hopes to find a job, buy a car, and rent an apartment or home. Alycia has also enrolled in Michigan Job Corps which will provide the GED review course, and hopefully other opportunities. Alycia is struggling to meet short term financial needs while she continues to rebuild her life. Any persons wishing to help her can make a donation may do so via paypal by clicking on the donation link at the top of the page or send to: supportalyciamartin@gmail.com.

Barring anyone gifting a car to Alycia, she will be saving money for a car. Anyone with a reliable used car can email information and contact frankcusumano@msn.com. Attorney Cusumano and his wife Julianne, have paid to obtain Alycia's birth certificate, Michigan Identification, rented a car for Alycia to take her driving test, paid all her fees at the Secretary of State Office, and driven(at $4.00 per gallon of gas) her between Westland, Troy and Warren on all her cases at no charge. Cusumano has handled all her cases pro-bono and has provided some groceries, an occasional meal, and other sundry assistance. Alycia wants to be financially independent, unfortunately, everyday expenses such as clothing, food and shelter continue to pour in, and without a car Alycia's progress towards that goal is slow. It is now a possibility and not a dream. Alycia's strength and will to improve her life continues to impress all around her. Alycia reminds Cusumano that she decided to make the call to him, and no one should mistake that Frank and Julianne Cusumano are in it with her for the long haul with this young woman.
The picture above is from an evidence CD in the Troy prosecution. Alyica has a natural radiant beauty, and perhaps a modeling career is possible. However, in the short term, as with each of us, the bills need to be paid, so the job search continues.
Persons not familiar or educated in the phenomenon of prostitution, the following is uncanningly illustrative of how, why, when and where these young people get drawn in:
"WHERE THE WORKERS COME FROM"
"The sex industry ultimately is about power. This is best demonstrated by the care with which the industry takes to ensure that those it uses are powerless. The predators are neither irrational nor stupid. They watch carefully for a kind of "victim profile," and avoid anyone who may be uncontrollable or dangerous.
They focus on young people coming out of families that are abusive, disorganized, or non-existent. One fundamental function of the family is protection of its members, especially its children. The family also is a team, and all players must do their jobs. If a member is lost or disabled, others in the extended family or community must step in to carry on. When one or more adults in a family are absent, addicted, mentally ill, or severely demoralized, the children are in danger.When the family is poor, or part of a devalued minority group, and opportunities for education and good jobs are limited, some members of those families may be willing to take risks. If the young people are being terrorized, beaten, or sexually abused by the very people who should be protecting them, many are going to take their chances on the street. For some, nude dancing or even prostitution may look better than no job at all." (excerpt with permission from How Prostitution Works By Joseph Parker, Clinical DirectorThe Lola Greene Baldwin Foundation. 2008)
Alycia was found by, and has found a responsible family/support network which will help her through the troubled waters of her recovery, and not let her drift away again. Although, by accident of birth she is "poor" and not a member of the "nobility," she is still entitled to a life free from fear and degradation. Hopefully, her blood relatives, other then her sister who has always been there for her, will someday reestablish contact.
Sometimes Cusumano calls Alycia and just says hello and asks her how she is doing. Maybe being around normal decent people is all it takes to change a young woman's life.

What the Troy Police Intentionally Inflicted on Alycia Martin, a "little person."

Recently a T-Shirt was put up for sale on the internet. It purports to be directed at Thomas Athans (since no one would even know who Alycia Martin is otherwise) however, Thomas Athans is not mentioned, depicted in picture, or otherwise referenced, on the shirt. This is because Thomas Athans was never charged with any crime stemming from the events of February 26, 2008. This remarkable lack of prosecution and fodder for the media (and this T-Shirt company) is a direct result of the "special treatment" afforded Thomas Athans. There simply is no "mug shot" of Thomas Athans to use. Instead there is only the widely disseminated picture of Alycia Martin which is captioned "The Information Super Ho-Way." Athans is, by virtue of his marriage to U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow and/or his failed business venture in Liberal Talk Radio, an "important person" to the media. Since there is no charges against him, Alycia becomes the surrogate "whipping girl."

Lt. Gerry Scherlinck, public relations specialist for the Troy Police Department, released a high resolution digital picture of Martin's booking picture to the media in response to a Freedom of Information Request (FOIA) from the Detroit News and Detroit Free Press, for one and one purpose only, to maximize Alycia's exposure to the media, and convict her in the Court of public opinion. Most, if not all police departments release only printed low resolution pictures in response to FOIA requests. This "overkill" is not justifiable under any reasonable circumstances. The Troy Police knew Martin's desperate situation, yet purposefully decided to grind her into the dust. Alycia Martin will survive this assault on her dignity as she survived the other degradations visited upon her. Alycia was supposed to jump bond, but to the surprise of the Troy Police and Thomas Athans appeared in Court to face the charge. Alycia has not missed or been late to a single Court appearance. Alycia refused to disappear into the night, and decided to fight to regain her life against the odds. Attorney Frank Cusumano Jr. has and will continue to stand by her, as he has through her other challenges, in Court and in her life, to help her get back what was lost. Alycia should serve as an inspiration to others in similar straits that they can make positive change and get their lives back.

Predictably, Martin's FOIA requests for documents and for the inspection of things to the City of Troy relative to the investigation and prosecution of Alycia Martin were denied in total. Martin is, of course, a "little person" and is expected to absorb the glare and brunt of negative publicity while Athans, as if nobility, walks away "scot free."

In feudal Europe, nobility could not be punished for their crimes. Usually the nobleman was not charged at all. If charged and after the finding of guilt, the sheriff would pick out a peasant servant or one from the crowd and lash him/her to the whipping post to absorb the beating. This was "punishment" since it was such a "disgrace" and "embarrassment" to the person of noble birth to have to witness such a thing. Nobility could not be touched. Likewise, in People v. Martin, the Troy Police argue that Athans has been "punished" by his embarrassment of having been caught in criminal activity, and having to endure the legal proceedings against Alycia. Athans has not had to defend himself against criminal charges, bears no criminal record, has not been pilloried in the press like Alycia, and was not even forced to testify when Martin called him as a witness in her pretrial Motion to Dismiss. Alycia Martin, who had surprisingly few choices in her life, is portrayed as "evil" and prosecution is necessary for law and order, but the same does not apply to Athans. The founding fathers of this country rejected such notions of entitlement and opted for "equal justice."

It should be noted that U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow has spent a life time of public service to the people of the State of Michigan, and should not be victimized, or her contributions diminished, for the actions of her legal spouse, Athans or the actions of the Troy Police Department relative to their handling of Athans. Misogyny in any form should not be tolerated, and this principal holds for both Stabenow and Martin, irrespective of political, social or economic wealth or influence.

Alycia's survivorship story is on the full blog page. http://www.alyciamartin.blogspot.com/. It is not what the Troy "ministry of public relations" would have you believe. Alycia Martin is a person and she is healing physically, spiritually and emotionally, with the help of those who reached out and would not let go. Alycia is a survivor.

On July 22, 2008, Alycia Martin received her first full Michigan Driver's License at the Westland Michigan Secretary of State (SOS). The picture at left shows her getting her license photograph taken. Alycia is also now registered to vote and intends to do so in the upcoming presidential election. Given the difficulties reassembling Alycia's birth certificate, identification, and the post 9/11 requirements, Attorney Frank Cusumano, Jr. considers Alycia's Drivers License one of the most important milestones in his representation. After five trips to the Secretary of State's Branch Offices (including obtaining her temporary learner's permit), four appearances in the 37th District Court, rental of a car for her road test, and three calls to the toll free Secretary of States' telephone, Alycia finally got her first driver's license. During the Driver's Road Test Alycia hit the cones twice on the parallel parking, and on the third and last allowable try parked the rental car perfectly. Alycia commented to Cusumano when he dropped her off that afternoon, "I would never have gotten this (my driver's license) if it wasn't for you." Alycia intends to protect her license by driving defensively and carefully.

As of July 22, 2008, Alycia Martin has no warrants or holds for her arrest. She can drive legally without fear of being stopped and arrested by police for driving without a license. MCL 257.904. Alycia would not be considered an "important person" or "politically connected" by police officers, unlike Thomas Athans, so if caught driving without a license would be arrested and hauled off to jail immediately and without hesitation. This is what had occurred in the 37th District, Warren, Michigan case.

Coincidentally, on February 26, 2008, Athans was in violation of the same statute MCL 257.904 when driving while license suspended in Troy on February 26, 2008, as Alycia was charged in Warren, Michigan. Athans was let go at the scene by the Troy Police, and ticketed the next day by certified mail. Secretary of State records show that Athans did not clear his suspension for another two weeks, just before his Court date. Troy police counter that they did not want to pay overtime and, therefore, did not ticket Athans when they "discovered" his license was suspended later that night. The officer that discussed the suspension with Athans in the police patrol car video, according to the official police version, did not inform the officer in charge (the officer that was sitting with Athans at various times in the patrol car video) that Athans had a suspended license. When the mistake was "discovered" it was decided that, rather then pay overtime, the ticket would be written the next day. It is left to the reader whether this version of events is credible. The Troy Police, however, did not mind bringing in two officers at almost 11:00 PM to have Alycia Martin sign a "Consent Forfeiture Agreement" in order to forfeit all the money they seized, $432.00 even though Athans in his confession only claimed to have given Alycia Martin $150. Apparently, this overtime was acceptable. Ultimately, Athans pled to the lesser charge of "no valid operators license in possession" on March 27, 2008, and was fined $75.00 and $40.00 costs for a total of $115.00.

Alycia Martin, in her case in Warren, charged under the same misdemeanor statute as Athans' original DWLS charge, served 22 days in the Macomb County Jail, was charged $660.00 for incarceration, fines and costs in the amount of $750.00 and 25 hours of Community Service. Judge Jennifer Faunce in an act in the service of justice and judicial compassion, suspended the fines and abstracted the file to the Secretary of State, allowing Alycia to have hope of obtaining her driver's license. Judge Jennifer Faunce, a former state prosecutor and State Representative on the House Judiciary Committee, should be lauded for her reasoned judicial temperament in not forcing Alycia into making impossible and destructive choices in order to pay judicially imposed fines and costs in order to avoid more jail time.

Alycia is grateful to all the persons who have assisted her in regaining her life. Alycia now looks forward to becoming gainfully employed, so she can obtain a car, get a home, pay her taxes, vote, and someday have a family and live in the Southeastern Michigan community which she loves.