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DRUG COURT
Using a highly specialized team process that functions within the Superior Court, Drug Court targets non-violent offenders who are not thought to pose a risk to public safety and who are most likely to benefit from treatment based on a diagnostic assessment. Upon acceptance, participants in Drug Court begin an individually structured treatment program lasting generally from three to five years. Drug Court:
- Provides tough and intensive supervision and treatment of offenders soon after arrest.
- Integrates alcohol and drug treatment services with justice system case processing.
- Monitors participants’ progress based on frequent drug testing and court appearances.
- Supports the recovery process and reacts swiftly to impose therapeutic sanctions or to reinstate criminal proceedings for noncompliance.
- Maintains a critical balance of authority, supervision, support and encouragement.
Drug Court Results:
- Drug use and criminal behavior are substantially reduced while clients are participating in drug court and after program participation.
- Drug Courts generate cost savings from reduced jail/prison use.
- Participants stay in treatment longer and report fewer relapses in comparison to defendants in other criminal justice processes.