Five first-time offenders in the criminal justice system were placed in Carbon County's Accelerated Rehabilitation Disposition probation program last week by Judge Joseph J. Matika.

If a person successfully completes all conditions of the program their record is wiped clean. However, if they fail to complete it, or are revoked from it, then they would face trial on all pending charges. A person does not admit guilt in entering the program.All were placed for a year.Andrew Justin Alvarez,20, of Albrightsville, was placed on a driving under the influence charge. He was arrested on Aug. 1, 2015, along Route 903 in Kidder Township by state police at Fern Ridge. A test showed the presence of a controlled substance.He was assessed $650 for the cost of the program, ordered to render 50 hours of community service and his license was suspended for 90 days.Michael F. Gerber Jr.,33, of Lehighton, was placed on a DUI charge. He was arrested on March 23, 2015, along Blakeslee Boulevard Drive East by Mahoning Township police. A test showed the presence of a controlled substance.He was assessed $600, ordered to render 50 hours of community service and his license was suspended for 60 days.Taylor Anna Martin,20, of Albrightsville, was arrested on Dec. 30, 2015, along Route 940 by Kidder Township police. She refused a test.She was assessed $600, ordered to render 50 hours of community service and her license was suspended for 90 days.David Mease,45, of Freeland, was placed on a charge of possession of a controlled substance. He was arrested on Jan. 19 along Plane Street by Weatherly police after being stopped for speeding 54 mph in a 35 zone.He was assessed $450, ordered to render 50 hours of community service, and get a drug and alcohol evaluation and follow any recommendation for treatment.Kimberly Juidt Valencia,21, of State College, Centre County, was placed on a DUI charge. She was arrested on Aug. 11, 2015, along Route 534 in Kidder Township by state police at Fern Ridge. A test showed the presence of a controlled substance.She was assessed $600, ordered to render 50 hours of community service and her license was suspended for 90 days.Each defendant must also pay court costs of about $1,000 and a $50 per month supervision fee while in the program. Those charged with DUI must also follow all recommendations of their drug and alcohol evaluation.