”Real-Time Re-entry”

Keeping guns out of the hands of ex-offenders is the purpose for a new partnership among the South Carolina Department of Corrections, the South Carolina United States Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The project, called “Real-Time Reentry” focuses on violent offenders and gang members who, after their release, re-offend with firearms while still under supervision of the Department of Corrections.  The program aims for swift apprehension and referral to federal authorities.  On the prevention side, assistant United States Attorneys and law enforcement officials visit with youthful offenders in prison to educate them about the opportunities and resources they have to lead rehabilitated and productive lives. There’s a simple message – if caught with a firearm or ammunition, you will be taken into custody immediately and your case referred to ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s office in “real time” for federal review and prosecution in federal court, where firearms-related sentences for repeat-offenders are more substantial.