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Drug Court gives offenders second chance
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With over 100 graduates since the initiative began, the Adult Treatment Court Collaborative, often known simply as Drug Court, has given its participates a second chance at being productive citizens.“Seventy-five percent of those completing Drug Court are never arrested again,” said master social worker Donna Vize, who works with the 31st Judicial District Adult Treatment Court Collaborative that serves Warren and Van Buren counties. “You can flip that number around for those who serve straight probation since it’s only 25 percent successful.”Vize revealed there are 2,700 drug courts in the United States, most aimed at providing an alternative to incarceration while providing treatment and guidance to offenders. Vize said they look for persons who would be productive citizens if it weren’t for their addictions.“Many start out with legitimate prescriptions but get addicted and have to get it by illegal means,” Vize said, noting treatment is a major part of the 18-month process which starts with a strict regimen that includes six months of house arrests, treatment, drug tests, court once a week, and employment.