FEELS SO GOOD –
Dec. 18, 2024 – Participants go through five phases of what is a nearly year-long program. Attendance at multiple treatment or recovery meetings each week is mandated by a plan determined to be appropriate for the individual. Drug screenings are conducted frequently to assure compliance with abstinence from drug use. Regular appearances before the court are required. … The recidivism rate has been found to be significantly lower for participants in comparison with those in a carefully matched group of drug offenders who went through traditional court proceedings. The number of adult drug court docket participants served in fiscal year 2023 saved local agencies and the state more than $4.8 million. According to a cost benefits analysis, average savings of $19,234 per individual participant were realized.
A 22-member advisory committee of members representing the courts, law enforcement, defense attorneys, the Rockbridge Area Community Services Board and other pertinent agencies has been meeting regularly this past year to lay the groundwork for the recovery court. We owe these individuals a debt of gratitude for their service to the community. Elrod points out that all of them have worked hard on this project.
