On Friday, May 13, Michael Johnston, 44, of Greenville, was arrested for violation of probation.
The goal of the criminal justice system is to correct and keep track of those offenders who encounter the system. Part of this process is probation, which allows the offender to live in society, provided that they check in with a probation officer regularly, uphold the law and meet other specific provisions. If these requirements are not met, a warrant is drawn up and the offender is arrested for violation of probation.
Johnston was living in Greenville in Feb. of this year, and it was during that time he disappeared from his residence and did not appear for his monthly meeting with his probation officer.
Both of these acts are direct violations of the terms of his probation.
Additionally, his warrant, given under the hand and seal of Judge Robert Plaines, states that he is accused of failing to comply with a lawful instruction of his probation officer.
Bond was withheld and Johnston currently remains at the Jefferson County Jail as of Wednesday, May 25.