This is Scott and you're listening to What Was That Like?

Every other Friday, I bring you firsthand accounts from people who've experienced something truly unusual, something shocking, bizarre, or tragic.

But today's episode is a little different. Today's Friday, but we're in between regular episodes.

And I wanted to just tell you a story.

I want to tell you about a man named Stephen Slevin.

His story isn't one you hear every day.

It's not a crime thriller with twists and turns, and it's not a tale of a master criminal. Now Stephen's story is one of negligence,

inhumanity, and a justice system that utterly failed him. His case shocked the country when

it came to light. And if you haven't heard about what happened to him, get ready.

Because this one's hard to believe.

Stephen Slevin wasn't some hardened criminal.

He wasn't a violent offender.

He wasn't a con artist running from the law.

In fact, he was just an ordinary guy with some struggles.

He suffered from depression and other mental health issues.

And like a lot of people, he had trouble navigating life at times.

But in August 2005, his life would take a turn he never saw coming.

Stephen was pulled over in New Mexico and arrested for driving under the influence.

It should have been a routine case. An arrest, some paperwork, maybe a fine, maybe a short

stint in jail, and then a court date.

That's how the justice system is supposed to work, right?

You get your day in court, your lawyer fights for you, and the system sorts out what happens next.

...