Becky Cameron represents an option for criminal defendants. She is not, however, a pushover.
A sentencing mitigation specialist in Moore County, she’s been working in the field since 2003. Formerly employed by the state, she’s worked for herself since the elimination of the position in 2011.
Becky, a graduate of Pinecrest High School – an institution her father helped build – meets with people charged with anything from vice infractions to violent crimes.
“There’s everything from kids getting caught with pot to murder cases,” Becky, who has a degree in administration of criminal justice from UNC-Chapel Hill, said.
No matter the crime, Becky provides the court with information on what happened in a defendant’s life prior to them being charged. If an individual shows commitment and initiative, she will do what’s necessary to advocate on their behalf.
“I explain how it got to that point,” she said. “Where procedures are followed, then I’ll really go to bat for them. They have to follow stipulations, or they go back to jail. I’m not a get-out-of-jail-free card.”
According to Becky, a key element in helping the process succeed is early involvement in a case. Law enforcement from around the county has contacted Becky regarding particular matters. It’s enabled her to gain an edge.
“It’s not unusual for officers to call me,” she said. “It happened just yesterday.”
While Becky does appear in court, much of her job involves doing background work relative to a defendant. Her findings are provided to the prosecution.
“If I’m asked, I testify,” Becky, the owner of a master’s from UNC Pembroke, said. “Quite often, my recommendations are part of the plan.”
It may seem that the mitigation of sentences, due in part to overcrowding in the prison system, is a recent development. That isn’t the case.
“It’s been around since the 1980s,” Becky, who actually works out of an office at the jail, said. “It’s a win-win for the jail. It’s one less person in custody.”
The stakes in this kind of profession are high. A person’s freedom and future are in jeopardy. Becky suffers from no lack of compassion, but she doesn’t let feelings control her demeanor in public.
“It can be difficult work, but there’s no emotion in the courtroom,” she said. “After the fact, I may get emotional.”
That’s especially true when a former client, who’s been able to turn things around, reaches out.
“That makes it worthwhile,” Becky said.
Feature photo: Becky Cameron. Photo by Stephanie M. Sellers/Sandhills Sentinel.
~Written by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Dave Lukow.
