New program helps expunge old and low-level criminal records

Getting out of prison doesn't always mean you're free. Ex-cons are often shackled by their criminal records. And making difficult trying to find housing or a job. But today, there is hope with an event in the West Valley. Brian Webb has more. This event is being held at a car museum in Glendale. A lot of people here, but often with very similar stories. They got into trouble young and are still trying to dig their way out. Let's do the front. Here we clap once. A packed conference room filled with people here to help and get help, all in one day, all under one roof. Like Everett, an ex-con looking for a job. I am a convicted felon, so I do have concern about finding jobs and things of that nature. Have you experienced that? Not recently, but I have in the past. The Time Done organization says nearly a half million Arizonans are living with old and low-level convictions on their records, creating barriers to second chances. Most importantly, access to housing and jobs. Eric got help and now gives help. You know, with some persistence, some stick-to-itiveness, I made it happen. But now I'm in a position where I can work with people who can give those resources and that kind of support. The room is surrounded by tables of different organizations here to help. Drug and alcohol prevention, mental health, education, food pantry, and even pet services. Time Done is also advocating for policy changes at the government level. And we're not talking about a gimme. We're talking about people earning their way to be deserving of this opportunity. People that work hard, people that grind, people that stay out of trouble, and people that are family men, mothers and fathers. The mission is to help people move on from their past, stay out of trouble, and set out on a new path, and help Everett get a job. I just gotta hopefully apply myself and maybe Time Done can help me out. Today's event was for face-to-face interaction, but hopefully forging lasting relationships. And it was free. In Glendale, Brian Webb, Fox 10 News.