To most people, jail is a scary, noisy, impersonal place to be avoided at all costs.

But to a homeless man who surrendered to Stuart police Sunday, prison represents safety and security from the dangers of the streets, according to a department news release issued today.

John L. Witherspoon, 54, reportedly walked up to officer Nick Briglia just before 6 p.m. Sunday on Lake Street and showed Briglia five cocaine rocks he had in his possession.

Witherspoon reportedly told Briglia he needed to go back to prison because he could not handle life on the outside.

Records with the Florida Department of Corrections show Witherspoon was released from a prison work camp in January after serving time for sale and possession of cocaine.

He was arrested Sunday for possession of cocaine and held at the Martin County jail in lieu of $5,000 bail.