By: Minna Sugimoto
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - It's a tough program designed to get drug addicts and dealers on the right path. Hawaii News Now takes a close-up look at Oahu's Drug Court.
Authorities say there are about 1,500 adult drug courts across the country. On Oahu, participants have access to intensive substance abuse treatment programs, as well as other services that should help them succeed in the community.
Initially, Drug Court only accepted non-violent criminals, giving them a chance to avoid prison and remain in the community. But now, a wider variety of drug offenders are getting that shot. The concept is simple -- follow all the rules or get locked up.
"All rise," the bailiff announced.
It's not your typical courtroom. You immediately feel a different vibe. It's a place where the judge, his staff, and the offenders themselves are giving everything they've got to reach a common goal.
"How many days sober?" Steven Alm, presiding Drug Court judge, asked.
"A year and eight months," a program participant proudly replied.
"Okay, excellent," the judge said.
This is Drug Court, where qualified offenders are granted community supervision instead of incarceration. They each get a counselor for drug and alcohol issues, and a case manager for real-life challenges such as housing, employment and budgeting.
Continue Reading: hawaiinewsnow.com
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - It's a tough program designed to get drug addicts and dealers on the right path. Hawaii News Now takes a close-up look at Oahu's Drug Court.
Authorities say there are about 1,500 adult drug courts across the country. On Oahu, participants have access to intensive substance abuse treatment programs, as well as other services that should help them succeed in the community.
Initially, Drug Court only accepted non-violent criminals, giving them a chance to avoid prison and remain in the community. But now, a wider variety of drug offenders are getting that shot. The concept is simple -- follow all the rules or get locked up.
"All rise," the bailiff announced.
It's not your typical courtroom. You immediately feel a different vibe. It's a place where the judge, his staff, and the offenders themselves are giving everything they've got to reach a common goal.
"How many days sober?" Steven Alm, presiding Drug Court judge, asked.
"A year and eight months," a program participant proudly replied.
"Okay, excellent," the judge said.
This is Drug Court, where qualified offenders are granted community supervision instead of incarceration. They each get a counselor for drug and alcohol issues, and a case manager for real-life challenges such as housing, employment and budgeting.
Continue Reading: hawaiinewsnow.com
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