SPOKANE, Wash. – Adam Stauffer, a 28-year-old man, is getting a chance to change his life with the support of the Spokane Prosecutor’s Office. On Tuesday, his attorney, Lindsey Wheat, requested that Judge Michelle Szambelan enact a sentence to help Stauffer overcome his history of drug abuse.
“He’s been willing to take accountability. He has expressed a need for treatment and a want for treatment, which I think is always that first step in trying to get out of that lifestyle,” said Wheat.
The request was supported by the Spokane Prosecutor’s Office. They emphasized the structure and support that the program will provide.
“Hopefully now with this program and the structure it provides, it’ll give him the ability to not only address the issues, but the coping mechanisms he needs put in place so we can hopefully not see him back here,” they said.
Judge Szambelan approved the request, ordering Stauffer to participate in six months of treatment followed by two years of community custody.
“To get well and to be there for your son and to have a better life for us at all. You’re still a young guy, so you want to be, not standing in front of us. Okay. Do you have any questions? No. Okay,” said Szambelan.
Stauffer expressed gratitude for the court’s decision and acknowledged the opportunity for a fresh start.
“Not only me, but a chance to get me reunited with my son. His mom passed away in January, so kind of dealing with the CPS issues right now, but they’re giving me another opportunity with treatment. Killing two birds with one stone,” said Stauffer.
Despite the opportunity, Stauffer faces the challenge of staying clean and finding a stable living environment. He will also have to pay restitution to the victim, starting at $20 a month next July.
This situation highlights the community’s commitment to rehabilitation and support for those willing to make positive changes.
