Drug Treatment Court

The Honorable William M. Neely
Chief District Court Judge for Judicial District 19B
Mike Scearce - Coordinator

Program Philosophy:

The Drug Treatment Court recognizes that addiction is a chronic disease affecting the addict as well as families, employers, and the community.  It is incurable but 100% treatable.  Group therapy is the primary treatment modality and treatment planning includes the input of the participant.  Attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings is required while in treatment.  Personal accountability is strongly emphasized.  Relapse prevention skills are taught throughout the treatment process.  Participants receive wraparound supervision from their Intensive Probation Officer, Case Manager, and treatment provider.  Frequent random urine drug screens are an important part of success in the DTC program.  Home and worksite visits are part of this supervision.

What is Drug Treatment Court?

Drug Treatment Court is a voluntary program for drug dependent individuals facing substantial prison time.  It offers offenders a chance to get help with their addiction and break out of the cycle of drug-driven criminal behavior.  Randolph County statistical data reflects that 75% of all property crimes (larceny, breaking and entering) have a direct correlation with substance abuse.  Eligible participants agree to enter an outpatient treatment program for a minimum of one year, submitting to intensive supervision and case management monitoring.  Noncompliance with any aspect of the program can result in sanctions of jail time, added community service, or demotion of treatment intensity level.

Who is Eligible?

• Prison-bound, post-convicted offenders with Level H or I felonies
• History of multiple District Court convictions reflecting a substance abuse problem
• Professional assessment of drug dependence
• Felony probation violations
• Offender consents to enroll in the DTC program and comply with all conditions of the Participant Contract

Who is Not Eligible?

• Convicted drug dealers or traffickers
• Those with a history of violent crimes
• Habitual felons
• Those unwilling to comply with conditions of the DTC Program

Eligibility Screening Process:

The process begins by completing a DTC Referral Form, which is reviewed by the Program Director or Case Manager.  A criminal background check is completed and the application is forwarded to the District Attorney's office for review and approval.  If approved, a needs assessment is scheduled with the applicant including a substance abuse assessment.  After acceptance by the DTC team, participants appear in court twice monthly to report on their progress.  Based on the Treatment Team review prior to each court proceeding, the Team may respond with incentives, sanctions, applause, admonition, level of treatment changes, terminations, or graduation.
 

Levels of Progress:

Level One

• Orientation to the program
• Securing employment
• Compliance with program requirements (attending treatment group, AA/NA meetings, etc.)

Level Two

• Stabilization of drug-free lifestyle
• Strengthening support system
• Getting more involved in AA or NA meetings
• Securing a sponsor and a home group
• Demonstrating financial responsibility

Level Three

• Focus is more on long term goals
• Increase of personal responsibility for recovery
• Learning coping skills for stress, relapse prevention, and building healthier relationships
• GED or parenting classes are available

Level Four

• Focus is on treatment aftercare
• Develop a personalized relapse prevention plan
• Assume a mentor role for new participants