Kids Behind Bars Then & Now - Morris's Story and 2023 Update

The script begins with a character named Morris being questioned about his recent activities. He admits to being at an apartment complex with friends, smoking marijuana on the front porch. Morris initially lied about his identity due to an outstanding warrant. He is suspected of being under the influence of marijuana, leading to a medical check and drug test. Morris expresses fear of being sent to a placement facility for two years, which is a concern shared by many kids in the juvenile justice system.

Morris is confronted about his marijuana use, which he admits to but downplays his involvement. He is tested for marijuana and the results are positive, as expected. Despite being on house arrest and having a court date, Morris failed to appear in court in July, leading to a bench warrant for his arrest. His probation officer and mother are present in court, but Morris is absent, showing his disregard for the legal process.

Morris is taken to the hospital for a drug test, which comes back positive for marijuana. Despite this, he denies still feeling the effects of the drug. His release from house arrest earlier in the year and subsequent failure to appear in court are discussed. The court is considering his actions and the potential need for a more structured environment to address his issues, such as anger management and substance abuse.

The script moves to a courtroom setting where Morris's lawyer, Mr. Ruck, discusses the case with him. Morris expresses a desire to be released and to get relief from his situation. His mother is present and wants him to come home. The court is concerned about Morris's history of marijuana use and his potential to reoffend if released. Morris's past expulsion from school and his aspirations to finish his education and pursue a career in real estate are also discussed.

Morris discusses his home life, mentioning his mother, two sisters, and brother. His father lives separately but maintains contact. Morris expresses a desire to be with his family, indicating a potential support system. His mother's concern about his anger issues is noted, and Morris admits to needing professional help for his anger management. The court considers the family's willingness to support Morris but also their acknowledgment of his need for help.

Morris reflects on his actions, acknowledging his fear of the court's decision and his avoidance of court appearances. He discusses his desire to be released on house arrest to prove he can be a good kid and not mess up. His mother's testimony in court shows her willingness to take him home but also her concern about what is best for him. The court is tasked with determining the appropriate course of action for Morris, considering his behavior and the potential risks.

The script delves into the family dynamics, with Morris's mother testifying about his behavior and their relationship. She acknowledges his anger issues and the need for help but is unsure of what exactly will help. The court explores the family's willingness to support Morris and the potential for him to receive services through the court. The mother's concern about Morris's drug use and his relationship with his father are also discussed.

Probation Officer Gordon Fleming provides his insights into Morris's case, noting his supervision and the recommended counseling services. Morris's lack of participation in counseling and his tendency to run away from home are highlighted. The officer's recommendation for Morris to remain detained until a modification hearing is discussed, emphasizing the need for a structured environment to address Morris's issues.

The script discusses the negotiations between Morris's lawyer, the probation officer, and the court. Morris's mother's willingness to take him home and the potential for him to be placed under house arrest are considered. The court explores the feasibility of Morris following rules and attending counseling sessions, given his past behavior. The probation officer's concerns about Morris's association with dangerous individuals are also raised.

Morris reflects on his situation, expressing his desire to be home with his family and his willingness to follow rules if released. He acknowledges his anger issues and the need for help. Morris discusses his past experiences with the court and his probation officer, expressing frustration and a desire for a second chance. His thoughts on potential placements and his hopes for a positive outcome are shared.

The court makes a decision on Morris's case, ordering him to remain detained pending a disposition hearing. The court acknowledges Morris's mother's willingness to support him but also considers his dangerous behavior and the likelihood of him not appearing for future court dates. The decision is made to ensure Morris receives the necessary services and guidance, despite the challenges presented by his past actions.

Morris's mother expresses her love and support for her son, acknowledging the emotional toll the court process has taken on their family. She hopes for a favorable outcome that allows Morris to return home. The script captures the tension between the family's desire for Morris to be released and the court's need to ensure his safety and compliance with the law.

Morris discusses his hopes for being released to his family, expressing his desire to change his life and work on his anger issues. He acknowledges his past mistakes and the need for therapy and counseling. The script captures Morris's reflections on his actions and his aspirations for a better future, despite the challenges he faces.

The script explores the family's concerns about Morris's future, particularly his mother's worry about his potential placement in a detention facility. The court proceedings highlight the complexities of the juvenile justice system and the challenges faced by families in navigating these processes. The court's decision to send Morris to a placement facility is discussed, along with the family's emotional response to this outcome.

The script concludes with a reflection on Morris's case and the broader implications for the juvenile justice system. The court's decision to place Morris in a facility is intended to provide him with the necessary services and support to address his issues. However, the script also acknowledges the challenges and potential setbacks faced by individuals like Morris, highlighting the ongoing struggle to keep young people on the right track.