Slow but promising start for new program aimed at ex-cons

(AP) – An unusual federal court program that aims to help ex-convicts rebuild their lives is off to a slow but promising start.
The program was launched last summer in Scranton and connects recently released inmates with bank loans, an education and drug-and-alcohol treatment. Court officials say only a few felons have taken advantage so far, but the early results are positive.
Casey Carrick robbed a bank to feed his heroin addiction. After his release from prison, he got a $12,000 loan to