About this episode
Send us a text Carol Nistakis shares her family's painful journey through the justice system after her autistic son was manipulated into illegal activity by a neighbor. Her decade-long fight for justice led her to cofound D3, an organization helping families navigate the unique challenges autistic individuals face in legal proceedings. • Began advocating when son was diagnosed at age 2, ensuring proper education and support • Son functioned at age 10 level but was active in Special Olympics and held a part-time job • 2012 incident led to 19 felony charges that were eventually reduced to one misdemeanor • Court showed little interest in son's diagnosis despite extensive documentation • Plea deal resulted in 2 years probation and 10 years on registry • Son lost access to Special Olympics, recreation activities, and eventually his job • Family was separated as son could no longer live at home due to restrictions • Financial burden depleted savings meant for son's long-term care • After 10 years, Carol secured a pardon and expungement without legal help • Advocates for special courts with judges trained to understand autism • Stresses that behaviors are manifestations of disability, not criminal intent • Current autism rate is 1 in 31 children, making justice system reform urgent Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me, the world, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI) The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates. Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed. Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care. Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.