CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Violent Crime is on the rise in Charlotte, and Charlotte Mecklenburg Police say they're also seeing more teenagers committing them. This year alone, CMPD has arrested people as young as 15 and 16 for murder.
While the trend is troubling, one former inmate says his time behind bars is helping him teach other kids and teens about the dangers of a criminal lifestyle.
Doral McHam has a lengthy rap sheet. According to the Mecklenburg County Detention Center, he served time for charges including breaking and entering in vehicles, possession of stolen goods, and felony theft.
McHam is now out of jail and says he wants to show other kids that a life of crime isn't something they want.
He started a group called "Grab a Brotha Before He Falls", focused on community outreach. He gives out clothes and food to those in need, and also gives motivational speeches to kids in the community.
His hope is to show people that you can turn your life around even if you've made some bad decisions.
"People doubted me. People said when he got out, he'll be doing the same thing, like statistics would say," McHam said. "But I overcame the statistics and became something. I got my high school diploma. It was mind blowing because my family never thought I would get a high school diploma, because of my past history they doubted me."
McHam has plans in the works to speak at West Mecklenburg High School after the holidays.
He is also doing a winter clothing giveaway on December 14 for those in need. He is currently taking donations for the clothing drive.