Judge Ron Cable has been on the bench at the Akron Municipal Court for five years. 

He has presided over many cases and noticed a need for more resources for those who enter the criminal justice system and live with developmental disabilities; like people with communication disorders, Down syndrome or are living with autism spectrum disorder.

"The whole goal is to give them a path to make better choices," said Cable.

So he came up with the Connect Program.

"Sometimes, you know, something more punitive like a jail sentence I don't think really, I don't think they really understand. Many of them anyway, you know, the punishment. For some of them it's very detrimental because they're a very vulnerable population," said Cable.

Cable said a team works together to identify the needs of the defendant.

Jeff Sturmi is the deputy chief probation officer and one of the members of the team. A lot of his job is managing the program, but he also enjoys connecting with the participants.

"When these clients come in for our hearings you know twice a month after those you know court sessions with judge cable I always bring them down you know to my office where you know I meet with them personally. I meet with their treatment staff," said Sturmi.

He said the program is helpful for the participants, because they are connected with services that partner with the court. It helps the clients make a plan of action to stay out of trouble.

"I think just kind of slowing the process down and showing those clients, you know, more assistance, more respect helps them feel more comfortable," said Sturmi.

There currently are two participants in the program. They would have to complete several requirements, like following treatment and complying with their case management plan.

After that​, they could have their records sealed and get a fresh start. The first participant is expected to graduate in April.​