The prosecutions of Chas Buswell and Jamal Gloster may be connected in a way not previously thought of.

Mr. Buswell, the subject of the Number 4 story, languished in jail for 6 months, held without bail, for charges that were eventually reduced to a single simple assault charge.

Mr. Gloster, the subject of story Number 10, was arrested after a lengthy investigation produced evidence of sales, and a search warrant uncovered illegal substances, stolen goods, and a weapon. Mr. Gloster was permitted to bond out pending his trial, however.

I'm wondering if the handling of Mr. Gloster's preliminary hearing and bond was somehow affected by Mr. Buswell's lengthy incarceration on charges that eventually became something that would barely warrant a single night in jail.

Could it be argued that the effects of jail on Mr. Buswell might have constituted a contributing factor to his death? Could it also be argued that Mr. Buswell's death may have contributed to Mr. Gloster being spared the county lockup prior to his trial?

As a follow-up, according to online court records Mr. Gloster pleaded guilty to Criminal Possession, Possession with Intent to Deliver, and Reckless Endangerment, and was sentenced in December to three years' probation.

Perhaps in retrospect this constitutes a significant year for how our local criminal justice system deals with young adults. One could ask at what price, however. Hoping that 2013 brings better days for our youth and community at large.