A man from Salem, Oregon who was shot while trying to elude a police officer will get the opportunity to rebuild his life at a drug treatment center instead of going to jail.
Joshua A. Bruce, 23, was scheduled to be sentenced last week on charges including felony attempt to elude, theft and possession of methamphetamine. Under terms of a deal brokered by his defense attorney and the Marion County District Attorney’s Office, Bruce will enter an inpatient drug treatment center.
Bruce’s sentencing was postponed until Oct. 28 with the understanding that his success in the program at the drug treatment center will be considered upon his return to court.
Bruce’s friend, Tory McClure, applauded the court’s decision to send him to treatment instead of to jail. McClure described herself as a recovering drug addict.
“I think that’s awesome,” McClure said. “They usually don’t give people chances like that.”
McClure said she is participating in a similar program at a drug treatment center in Salem. She is on schedule to complete the program on Aug. 2.
“Hopefully, Joshua will take this opportunity and use it for good. I know (treatment) has helped me a lot. When we’re messed up on dope, we do stupid stuff. But he didn’t deserve prison time. He’s an awesome person. He’s caring, he’s loving.”
