When you face criminal charges, there is usually the possibility of having the charges dropped or winning an acquittal at trial. An experienced criminal defense lawyer should always have that goal in mind, but they should also be honest and direct about what you can realistically expect.
At Fienman Defense, when a trial is not an option, we focus on minimizing the consequences of a conviction. One of the ways we can do this is by pursuing a more manageable penalty for our clients.
One such program is the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections’ (DOC) Motivational Boot Camp Program. This program offers qualifying offenders the chance to serve a reduced sentence in a structured, rehabilitative environment rather than a state prison.
If you are facing criminal charges that could result in imprisonment, call Fienman Defense right away at (215) 839-9529 to schedule a free consultation about your options.
What Is the DOC’s Motivational Boot Camp?
The Pennsylvania DOC’s Motivational Boot Camp was created in 1992 and is operated by the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC). Located in Quehanna, Pennsylvania, this is a six-month program styled after a military boot camp. It requires physical exercise, work, substance abuse treatment, and, if you did not complete high school, educational classes and GED testing.
The purposes of the boot camp are to:
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Provide a non-traditional alternative to state prison
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Promote rehabilitation and reduce repeat offenses
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Equip participants with life skills and discipline
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Protect public safety by supporting successful reentry
Upon completion, participants are released to a Community Corrections Center near their home and placed under close supervision for an additional 6 months.
Who Is Eligible for the Motivation Boot Camp?
The boot camp is primarily intended for non-violent offenders, particularly those whose crimes are connected to substance abuse or addiction. However, not everyone qualifies.
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Under 40 years old
- Not convicted of violent or serious offenses such as:
- Murder, rape, arson, sexual assault
- Drug delivery resulting in death
- Robbery involving a deadly weapon
- Originally sentenced to state incarceration
- Your sentence must include:
- A minimum of no more than two years and maximum of five years, or
- A minimum of no more than three years, and you’re within two years of reaching your minimum
It’s important to note that deadly weapon enhancements in sentencing disqualify you from boot camp eligibility.
How Do You Get Into the Motivational Boot Camp?
Judges do not sentence you directly to the boot camp. Instead, the judge will sentence you under the typical guidelines and may recommend you to the DOC as an eligible boot camp attendee.
Many judges do not think of this option themselves, which is why at Fienman Defense, if eligible, we will discuss this option with our clients and advise the judge of a client’s interest in participating (if appropriate).
If the DOC approves your admission into the Motivational Boot Camp Program, you have the option of going or not. The boot camp is entirely voluntary. If you choose to go, you always have the option to leave. However, if you leave the camp, you cannot simply move to the parole phase. You must serve out at least your minimum prison sentence before seeking parole.
Boot Camp Through the State Intermediate Punishment Program
There’s also another route into the boot camp through State Intermediate Punishment (SIP). Under SIP, you may be sentenced to a two-year program that includes:
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Four months of intensive inpatient addiction treatment
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Time in the Motivational Boot Camp
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Ongoing therapy and supervision
This path is particularly effective for individuals battling drug or alcohol dependency.
Why You Need a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer
The Motivational Boot Camp can significantly reduce the amount of time you spend behind bars—but only if your attorney knows how to leverage it. At Fienman Defense, we:
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Thoroughly assess your eligibility
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Argue for alternatives during sentencing
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Guide you through the application process
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Advocate for treatment and rehabilitation—not just punishment
Attorney Michael H. Fienman has years of experience representing individuals in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania. He understands how to work within the system to secure outcomes that support your future.
Talk to Fienman Defense About Your Options Today
Whether you’re facing charges, have already been sentenced, or want to understand your alternatives, contact Fienman Defense now. We will fight for the best possible outcome, whether that’s dismissal, acquittal, or reduced penalties through options like the Quehanna Boot Camp.
To talk with Michael H. Fienman about how we can help, call (215) 839-9529 to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
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