Gaston County expedites low-level cases to get jail inmates home for the holidays

GASTONIA, N.C. — Christmas came early for some families in Gaston County. Those who were close to probation were released from jail early so they could go home for the holidays.

The judge told Channel 9 that it was all about second chances.

Officials said the people who are being released did not commit serious offenses.

According to the district attorney, they were cases where the defendant would most likely get probation. However, it could take a while before those cases could go before a judge.

So, the court is expediting a few of those cases so those people could be home for the holidays.

“I’m grateful,” defendant Christy Scruggs said Friday.

Scruggs had been arrested for felony larceny. She was fortunate enough to have her case heard in “Christmas Court.”

“Just like the Grinch gave the Who’s down in Whoville a second chance to have Christmas after stealing their presents,” prosecutor Matt Hawkins said.

Scruggs is now going to a rehab facility, and she is thankful for it.

“If you allow me, I can show you that I’m ready,” she said.

There were only 10 cases in Christmas Court.

Prosecutors admit some of the cases are not open-and-shut cases and getting an active sentence may be hard.

But it does expedite some cases.

Defense attorneys said that getting a hearing during the holidays is also hard, because so many officers of the court have time off.

“They are shocked because they already had in their minds that they would be here until sometime after the new year,” said Rocky Lutz, a public defender.

Lutz said some of the defendants are caregivers and household breadwinners and have been behind bars for weeks or months.

Superior Court Judge David Phillips asked the recipients to see the value in it.

“Instead of going to prison on your probation violation, you’re going to have the opportunity to be with your family on Christmas. Good luck to you, sir,” Phillips said.

The defendants were warned if they break the law again, they will end up back in jail and possibly prison.

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