A new convict payment plan program initiated by the Guthrie County Attorney’s Office is so far showing positive returns.

The program started on July 1st allowing county convicts to set up monthly payments to the attorney’s office for fines, fees, and other expenses incurred through court. County Attorney Brenna Bird informed the Board of Supervisors that while the County must reach $25,000 paid by the end of the fiscal year for the state to continue to allow this program, they are well on their way to meeting that threshold with $17,000 collected as of December. Bird says the County receives 28% of these payments in its general fund, so right now they are looking at receiving $5,000. Bird clarifies that the County doesn’t receive a percentage of some legal costs like victim restitution. Once the County has collected $25,000, Bird’s office would receive five percent, while the state gets the remaining 67%. Bird reiterates that this plan in many cases help convicts get their driver’s license reinstated, and helps build towards a successful, crime-free life.