I believe this is within the rules to post:
Online I found a Class A Misdemeanor conviction Bryce had back in July 2012 (as an adult) in Illinois. It was for 10-30 grams of marijuana (which, in my opinion, isn't a small amount...approximately 30-60 joints worth. If he was convicted of over 30 grams it would have been a felony.) He was sentenced to a fine of $7,500 and 12 months of Supervision which ended recently on 7/18/2013. This conviction would have been after he graduated from High School and about a month before he started college (and, depending on when they moved, just prior to his family relocating to California.) "Fresh start?"
<modsnip>
Also, his supervision period recently ended (I don't know if he was subject to random drug tests as a result during the 12 month period but I wouldn't be surprised if he was) and within a month and a half later he admitted he took "at least on pill" (illegally.) His girlfriend was concerned enough to tell his mom about it. I would think that mom would have known about this conviction (more than likely also paid his expensive fine.) Might also be motivation to be vague to the media about how many pills Bryce took ("at least one".)
The above might be the catalyst behind any motivation he might have to disappear for awhile. Afraid he might get into trouble with law enforcement for using drugs again, possibly facing jail time? Afraid he won't be able to have his record expunged (perhaps his family put emphasis on this being important for his future?) Afraid of what his family would think after helping him through his prior arrest? Upset that he may have disappointed his girlfriend, roommate, friends and/or parents? Not quite ready to stop the partying? Thoughts?
Link:
https://www.judici.com/courts/cases...J&ocl=IL078015J,2012CM73,IL078015JL2012CM73D1