Felon to Community Recovery Role Model Through Drug Rehab

An article written in the Deccan Herald from New Delhi, “Addict-felon turns role model, thanks to de-addiction camp”, describes a 22 year old ex-drug addict and felon who is now in recovery and giving back to his community by helping other adolescents and young adults who are struggling with drug addiction. Shaukat attended drug rehabilitation treatment which is divided into two phases—three months of de-addiction and three months of rehabilitation at a program called Kingsway Camp. This young man’s story is similar to the other juveniles in the facility. He began smoking hash with friends which led to needing money. He stole money from his family’s grocery business and soon graduated to smack. Shaukat began stealing from strangers to supply his habit and was arrested many times on various charges related to addiction. “The story of Shaukat is the most common story here. It is not criminals who become drug-addicts, but it is their addiction that leads to stealing. At times, they engage in murder to hide their theft,” said Kripi Malviya, psychologist, Society for Promotion of Youth and Masses (SPYM) which runs the centre for the government. It is refreshing that the community thought it was important enough to publish an article about the strength, courage and service of this reformed addict, now role model.