101

Published on May 2016 | Categories: Documents | Downloads: 49 | Comments: 0 | Views: 482
of 23
Download PDF   Embed   Report

Comments

Content

DRUG COURT
“Path To a New Life”
This Little Book is a witness and a testimony for you who are considering Drug Court by us who have been through it or are in it now, team members, relatives and others who have observed and been touched by Drug Court. We who have been in Drug Court all had “usage issues” and were lawbreakers, some of us have been in and out of prison and we’ve all been in jail. We have stood at the fork in the road that you are at, and we hope you’ll choose this path. The setting for these stories is Jefferson County Washington but there are thousands of similar stories from Drug Courts across the nation. If you have a desire to stop drinking or drugging but have not been able do it on your own we encourage you to sign on.

This Booklet—The Reason
When I was offered Drug Court as an option to a felony drug possession, I had no idea what I was signing up for. From the little information I could gather, Drug Court was just the lesser of two evils. If I messed up, I would get kicked out and have to serve my full sentence. It seemed very risky, but I did not want a felony on my record, and I felt my marriage and business were too damaged due to years of poor choices to survive me going to prison. Even though I felt I had a pretty good chance of beating the charges, I knew if I did, I would still have a drug problem, so I chose Drug Court. Over the period of a year and a half, I came to see, understand and appreciate the incredible opportunity I had been awarded. I thought that it might be helpful for you (considering Drug Court) if you could read about the experiences of those of us who know a lot about Drug Court. It is my hope that this information might allow you to get your bearings from the start, keep you from faltering and save you some treatment time. If you are tired of the craziness and drama, have tried to change but can’t, Drug Court may be just what you need, consider taking the plunge and starting afresh. It is our opinion that you have nothing to lose by entering Drug Court, and everything to gain. All I lost was my mental slavery to addiction, low self-esteem, fear of the law, lack of goals, and disillusionment with life, what I gained is priceless and now, years after graduation continues to increase in value —David B.

Drug Court—History And Mission
The first drug court in the U.S. took shape in Miami-Dade County, Florida, in 1989 as a response to the growing crack cocaine problem that was plaguing the city and filling the prison with addicts. Chief Judge Gerald Wetherington, Judge Herbert Klein, then State Attorney Janet Reno and Public Defender Bennett Brummer designed the court for nonviolent offenders to receive treatment instead of punishment. This model of court system quickly became a popular method for dealing with an ever-increasing number of drug offenders. In the U.S. as of 2013 there are nearly 2,500 Drug Courts plus 111 tribal drug court programs treating about 120,000 people annually. Drug courts are also in Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Jail and prison have proven unsuccessful as a solution for combating addiction. Judge Dennis Challeen (retired), author and faculty member of both the National Judicial College and the National Association of Drug Court Professionals, said it best about the failings of sentencing addicted to prison, in his book The NORP Think Factor “We want offenders to have self-worth, so we destroy their self-worth. We want them to be responsible, so we take away all responsibilities. We want them to learn to be part of our community, so we isolate them from our community. We want them to be kind and loving people, so we subject them to hate and cruelty. We want them to quit being the tough guy, so we put them where the tough guy is respected. We want them to quit hanging around losers, so we put all the losers in one state under the same roof. We want them to be positive and constructive, so we degrade them and make them useless. We want them to be trustworthy, so we put them

where there is no trust. We want them to be nonviolent, so we put them where there is violence all around them. We want them to quit exploiting us, so we put them where they exploit each other. We want them to take control of their lives, own their problems, and stop being a parasite, so we make them totally dependent on us. ”

Each year in the U.S. there are approximately 1.2 million prison-bound offenders who are at risk for addiction and who pose little threat to public safety. For them, there is a better way. Drug Court treats addiction as a disease addressed with treatment and support, instead of a crime punishable with incarceration. Contrary to the street myth, Drug Court is not a money-making scheme, it is a money-saving plan. Drug Court takes an offender who is in and out of the court and the jail system, who may be stealing to support their habit, and who is costing the taxpayers time, money and grief. It puts them through treatment, gets them clean and working, in their own housing with their other legal issues resolved, and transforms them from a burden on the community into an asset to the community. This is how a more enlightened society cares for its sick and saves money in the process. The county invests in our treatment and future, and we stay out of jail and save them between $2-$10 for every $1 spent (varies between counties), a truly visionary program. Drug Courts are the most effective justice intervention for treating drug-addicted people. Drug Courts reduce drug use. Drug Courts reduce crime. Drug Courts save money. Drug Courts restore lives. Drug Courts save children from continuing the cycle and reunites families. Seventyfive

percent of Adult Criminal Drug Court graduates never see another pair of handcuffs.

Drug Court—Reality
If you’ve never been in Jefferson County’s Drug Court, then you’ve never been in anything like it. It’s the only court where the judge’s entrance is not announced by a bailiff, you don’t stand up when he enters the room, and his opening words as he comes in with a smile are, “Well, good morning, everyone.” Every Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m., we file in and drag chairs up around the big oak table at the front of the Superior Courtroom and sit with the Judge, Prosecutor, Public Defender, a Safe Harbor’s (treatment center) Drug Court administrator. Drug Court begins with the team checking up on those in jail (via the T.V.) who are waiting to start treatment or in for a sanction. Once that’s done, one by one each Drug Court member is called upon by and basically asked “How’s it going, what’s new?” The Drug Court team wants to hear how our treatment is going, how things are where we live, how things are with our family, what kind of problems we are having, how work or the search for it is going and what we’re doing for fun—they do want us to have fun, and they like to hear how we’re doing it (without drugs). They are honestly interested in our lives, what’s good, what’s not and what we’re doing about it. Our problems are addressed with sympathy and possible solutions. It’s very informal and friendly (with laughter and clapping of hands), and the concern for the participants by the Drug Court team is deep and sincere. When we make mistakes like being late or missing classes or appointments, we get warnings and then sanctions, such as community service time or maybe a couple of days in jail. If we continue to make poor choices, we may get shipped off to do inpatient or extra outpatient treatment time. Getting sanctions does not mean they don’t care about us, it means they do. They really just want us to change our behavior so we can have a good life, and this is how they help us make it happen. They want us to always be honest with them even when it makes us look bad (that shows progress), ask for help and advice, they are there for us. Classed are long and frequent in the beginning and seems to take up all your time, but you really don’t have anything more important to do (even though it may seem so). Relax and enjoy the ride, try to be grateful and open minded. Don’t be getting high on the sly and you won’t have to start over halfway through it. Soon enough, your group meetings at Safe Harbor get shorter and farther between. You will need to attend 5 A.A./N.A. meetings a week for the duration of your Drug Court experience and believe it or not these meetings are incredibly important for your long term success in staying clean and becoming a better you. Most of us, when we first started, thought the same thing about A.A. and N.A. as you probably do now, but many of us changed our minds so go with an open mind and make some friends. Drug Court’s discipline and treatment were instrumental in first getting me clean so I could establish new behavior and start thinking and seeing again, but A.A., N.A. the bible and prayer and meditation got me thinking about what is really important in life, who I really was and how I could be a better person and that ultimately has made my life successful. Those three embraced will make the journey so much easier and successful, I hope you discover this early on. So if you don’t screw up, you can graduate in about 12 months, for myself and others it took longer because we held on to some of our old ideas (using and lying about it). No matter how long it takes you will be amazed before you are halfway through at how you have changed. Graduations happen 3 or 4 times a year right in the Superior Courtroom during the Drug Court time slot. It’s open to the public, so there’s family, friends, courthouse workers, well wishers, cake and cookies. They put your booking photo up on the screen next to a photo taken just before graduation, and it’s like Jekyll and Hyde—the transformation is remarkable. It’s all smiles, hugs and handshakes and sometimes tears (of joy) with the Judge, prosecutor, lawyer and treatment peoples, they say honest nice things about you, the prosecutor tosses your file in the wastebasket and you really are a different person.

Our Experiences –How we were, what happened and how we are now.
“I had been in trouble my whole life. I lied, cheated and stole and was heavy into drugs and alcohol. My driver’s license was permanently revoked by Snohomish County for 5 D.U.I.’s, my life was a mess, and when I was offered Drug Court, I took it because I wanted to be clean and just couldn’t do it on my own. The Drug Court team taught me how to be accountable and reliable. They taught me how to be a member of society and what a great pleasure it is to be clean. They wrote letters to the Snohomish Court informing

them that I was in Drug Court and doing well, and the Snohomish County Judge replied with a ‘keep up the good work’ and a $50 fine for each D.U.I. and reinstated my license. The Drug Court team helped me get custody of my daughter. I have a great life now and would not change my Drug Court experience for anything. When I was told I had to do 5 A.A. meetings a week, I thought it was a crock of B.S. I thought A.A. was where everybody got together to get their slips signed, then got high or drunk in the parking lot— that’s the way it was in Seattle. I started going to meetings and started making friends and got a sponsor like they told me to. I was actually going to 8 or 9 meetings a week. It kept me sober because my home environment was not the safest place to be. I really appreciated being able to call or go visit my sponsor when I needed to. A.A. gave me what I needed, and it came without pressure from people who had been right where I was. They really care about me, and even though I am no longer in Drug Court (I graduated), I still go to meetings because I have so many friends there. The Drug Court team and A.A. saved my life. If you’re tired of the drama and nothing ever going right, I recommend Drug Court—life can only get better.” —Art “Before I entered Drug Court, I had emptied myself of assets, hope and dreams. I was an empty shell waiting to die. I couldn’t see any other option. Initially I had setbacks—being hardheaded and self-willed got me 4 days in jail. I had been warned about poppy seed muffins and didn’t quite listen close enough. That got me 30 days inpatient and 4 more weeks of I.O.P classes. I went from thinking ‘they’ were hardcore out to get me to realizing that they were trying to teach me and guide me in living life comfortably instead of fighting useless battles. They want to help us learn to co-exist with others and be part of society again. They want us to change for the better, to enjoy life again. The Drug Court team and my counselors always helped when I asked. Judge Verser clarified a legal question I had, Prosecutor Juelie Dalzell wrote a letter on my behalf and Shelia told me to quit plodding along and get some dreams and set some goals. It took me another eighteen months to finish (seemed longer until near the end, then it seemed too soon). I sure wanted to bag it quite a few times, but I was so tired of being a ‘loser,’ and so I managed to hang in. I’ve been out of Drug Court (graduated) since 2007. Spiritually and emotionally, I have a life I never dreamed I could have. I’ve learned to keep moving, try different things and meet new people—just keep doing the right thing. I’ve learned to keep trying to find solutions. If one way does not work, try another. My closing words of wisdom for the newcomer: ‘Nothing changes if nothing changes.’ Believe it or not, Safe Harbor and Drug Court are on your side. They want you to make it.” —Linda “Drug Court is so much different than I expected. When I actually gave it a shot, my whole life changed! They have helped me with so much and I love my life now, all thanks to Drug Court!” —Ashley “I had been a professional criminal and drug addict for almost thirty years when I was remanded to Jefferson County Drug Court in 2008. I had heard only that Drug Court was ‘a way to postpone the inevitable,’ ‘a trick bag,’ and ‘full of snitches.’ In fact, I believed that if you were in Drug Court, you had probably ‘rolled’ on someone to get there. So, when my defense attorney presented the option of Drug Court, I was resistant, to say the least. It was only because I had just gotten out of prison a year before that I was open to the idea. I was sent to inpatient treatment and had a surprisingly good time. I always knew I was a drug addict, so it wasn’t news to me. I was very surprised and pleased to learn that these people were willing to listen to my contrary ideas and to me questioning their authority! I had gotten all of this without having to inform on anyone or make any sort of ‘deals’ with the police or the prosecutors! When I came back and started outpatient treatment, I was prepared for the worst. I had tried to get help years before at Safe Harbor and had a horrible experience with the program. Surprisingly, these people were also willing to listen to my side of things as long as I showed a willingness to stop using and drinking and get with the program. I had difficulty at first. I didn’t want to stop using and drinking. I was pretty sure that I could sneak my way through and no one would know. I was wrong. I went back to jail and was given time to think about what I really wanted out of my life. I had been lying, sneaking and using for almost all my life, and all it had gotten me was trouble. I had done seventeen years in jail and prison cells, I had lost my wife and kids,

homes and cars, and I had spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on my lifestyle and had absolutely nothing to show for it. I wanted more, I wanted to succeed and to be respected for who I am and what I do. It became clear to me that I wasn’t going to get this by living the same way I had for the last three decades. It was obvious to me that I was going to actually have to change my behaviors—to make different choices and plan for different results. When I was released from jail, I made those changes. I stopped using and drinking, I stopped lying and sneaking, and it became simpler. It became possible in my mind for me to become the person that I always wanted to be. This was instrumental. Without realizing that it was actually possible, I would have continued living the way I had been. It really wasn’t that big of a deal for me to go back to prison for a couple of years, but that would just continue the same repetitive cycle I had been living for so long. I learned that it is hard to change; it is uncomfortable and painful to change. But I also learned that this Drug Court program helps. When I started out in this program, the whole team said I was a lost cause and that I was a con artist who would never amount to anything. They told me that they ‘knew’ I was going to fail. I learned that the Drug Court team wasn’t just the same group of people who had been laboring for years to keep me in a prison cage, they were also people who were capable of believing I could change. It took a while for them to come around. What it really took was for me to make actual changes and sustain them for a length of time. However, when it became apparent that I was living and behaving differently, I was very pleased to hear the Drug Court team admit they had been wrong about me. This same group of people who had lobbied for years to keep me in a prison cell were now telling me they had been wrong. I never believed it was possible! When I learned that I had contracted a liver disease from my twenty-five years of drug use, the Drug Court team was supportive and encouraging of my medical treatment. They modified my program to allow extra time and leniency of my drug treatment requirements. This is not the behavior that I had come to expect from the Jefferson County Superior Court Judge and Prosecuting Attorney after spending six of the last ten years in a Washington State penitentiary. In my opinion, choosing to enter Drug Court was one of the best decisions I have made in my life. I have a healthy, loving relationship with a beautiful woman who has agreed to become my wife. I am building relationships with my children for the first time in their lives. I am considered to be an honest man who is calm and stable in his life, and that is something that nobody would have said a year ago. I have been involved in this program for over a year, and no one has ever asked me to ‘tell’ on anyone. I have never been asked to believe in anything that I wasn’t willing to. I do have to make some sacrifices and change the way I do things, but the payoff has been out of proportion to the modest investment made. I would urge anyone who is ready to have a different life to carefully consider opting for Drug Court. When you do so, you will give yourself the very rare opportunity for real change in your life. It is not easy and it is not for those who are not ready to put down all the things that clogged your life with drama and chaos, but if you are willing to work for it, your life will become better. Give it a chance and I promise that you will see the possibility for a happy, successful future that does not resemble the past in any way.” —Jeff “Drug Court is the program that definitely works. I have realized that being clean and sober is way easier than doing drugs. Why make it complicated?” —Anna “I grew up in Port Townsend, the only child of a single parent. I started drinking at age 13, and doing drugs at 16. I started selling drugs at about 17, and that continued until I was 27. That’s when I got pulled over for a California traffic stop and the officer found drugs, baggies and a scale in my car. I went to jail and my car was seized. I thought my ‘perfect’ life was over. My lawyer suggested I try Drug Court. I had no idea what it was at all, but I had a meeting with Ford Kessler of Safe Harbor, and he and Juelie Dalzell, the Prosecuting Attorney, agreed to let me join the program. Originally, I had intended to do the program, complete my treatment and go back to my old way of life. After a few months of meetings and groups and a whole lot of lifestyle changes, I realized that my quality of

life had gone up dramatically. Honestly, the toughest part of being clean and sober has been seeing old friends and having to explain to them that the old me is never coming back. I used to see Drug Court as my free ticket out of a felony charge. Now I see it as a free ride to a bigger and better life. I no longer have to spend half my time looking over my shoulder. My first few A. A. and N.A. meetings were scary because I thought I was different than ‘those people.’ Once I had sat through about a week of meetings, I was able to relax and open up a little, and I started to hear my own story over and over. Now I feel myself to be a part of a group of unique people who can understand each other when no one else can. I know I could not do this without them. I am very grateful to the Drug Court team for allowing me to participate in this awesome program. I hope all the other addicts, alcoholics and crazy people like me who are reading this will consider giving it a try. Drug Court can and will change your life, but only if you want it to.” —Molly “Drug Court has helped me change my life. I don’t regret anything I did in the past, I think it helps me grow. But now I am more successful. I never thought I’d be sober today!” —Sarah

GRADUATION DAY “My name is Pascaline and before I entered Drug Court my life was full of chaos, conflict and confusion. I had lost my ambition, integrity and self worth. As the saying goes, ‘I lived to use and used to live.’ I had been a daily meth user for ten years, and I had been using one substance or another since I was 15. I tried to live a ‘normal life’ by holding a job and taking care of my child, but in reality I had no control of my anger and emotions. I acted out all the time by taking situations to extreme measures, driving erratically, destroying property and playing the role of victim, blaming everyone or everything else for my discontent and unhappiness. I heard about Drug Court when I got my first possession of meth charge. The courts kept trying to give me a chance to take Drug Court, but I kept putting them off and saying I didn’t have time for it. I figured it would be easier to just do the time and be done with it. But I knew in my mind that wouldn’t be the end of it. Something had to give. Although it took a lot of time at first, I didn’t really see anything that was too hard about Drug Court. I had jumped right in with both feet. I knew it was my ticket out of the life I was living. I was willing to do what it took to get clean and do the right thing even though the program was pretty rigorous. What I found was that it wasn’t just about getting my felonies dropped, these people really cared about my life and my well-being. The Drug Court team has given me a new life. They have supported me 100% and have given

me the incentive to go back to school and change my life. Being committed to this program is so much easier in my life than using ever was.” —Pascaline “When I first entered Drug Court, I thought it would be a waste of my time. I made it a week and went on the run. A warrant was issued, but it was a year later before I was caught. The Drug Court team was happy to have me back, but that run cost me 3 months inpatient, which I guess was what I needed. When I came out of treatment, I had a different outlook on everything. The Drug Court team helped me get my driver’s license back and find work. They have helped me every time I needed it. I would not be clean and sober if it were not for Drug Court. I am very happy that I chose Drug Court. It has given me a new outlook on life, and I recommend it to anyone who is lucky enough to have the option.” —Don “It’s great! That chink in my neck has finally worked itself out after looking over my shoulder all those years. Now the police wave as I go by.” —Molly It’s giving me a life instead of a life sentence, best thing I have ever done, I recommend it.” —Danny “I’m David and I started doing drugs in the late 60’s, and over the years I have done it all. For years, I seemed to have it under control, but ultimately it came to consume my life and destroy everything good in it. I used to think I was lucky because of all the close calls I had escaped, but I never considered all the ‘accidents,’ injuries, financial losses and tragedies due to my drug and alcohol use that I didn’t escape. Gradually, I had exchanged a great life that I had created, with a wonderful family in a beautiful log home that we had built, and my own business, which allowed me to traveled to Africa and Asia, for a life of getting high with people as lost and hopeless as myself. Nothing was working right like it used to, my charmed life had taken on a curse, I was lost and could not find my way back. I could see the ocean of decay, loss, drama and tragedy that my using ‘friends’ and I were immersed in, but I could not get out of it. When I got arrested, I was on the verge of losing everything—my business, my family, my health. I had already lost my home (burned down), my mind and my self-confidence and was just waiting to die. I had given up on life and had nothing good to look forward to. When I got arrested for possession of crack and meth, I was aware enough to comprehend and inform the arresting officer that his arrival on the scene was divine intervention. I meant it. Thirty-five-year-old habits can take awhile to change. I tried really hard for awhile, but then I started thinking I was clever enough to get high occasionally and not get caught. Well, like so many others before me, I was wrong. What I was wise enough to realize was that these people have been running Drug Court for awhile, and they have seen and heard it all. My creative cover stories were old news to them. First I was getting diluted UA’s, and I got some weekend jail time, then I got a couple of dirty UA’s. I was sent to an inpatient treatment center in Spokane for a month. I had time to think about my poor choices and my path on that bus ride, and I was distressed that I had not been able to stay clean and recreate myself and rebuild my life. I was scared that I could not do it, that I would always be what I had become. I got off the bus in Spokane and was waiting for the van to pick me up and take me to the treatment facility. I walked over to this massive 15-foot-tall rock formation with a bronze plaque attached to it that said ‘The Wishing Rock’ Well, I did something I had not done for many years, as I leaned with my back against that rock. I prayed that somehow, some way, I could be done with drugs and that miserable life I had created. I prayed that prayer and then let it go. Then the van came, and off to treatment I went. A couple of days later, we all took a walk to a local park, and I took a nap on the grass under a tree while most of the guys played basketball. When I woke up, I realized I felt different. I felt like I had in the summers of my youth before I had done anything really bad in my life. I felt like everything was going to be ok. I had forgotten how great that felt. That feeling was the answer to that first prayer at the ‘wishing rock.’ I had a clean start on a continuing process, but that was the single most important thing I did: to stop relying on myself and my will power and to pray for help. I did not even imagine I would get an answer or what that answer would be. And just to be clear, I was not religious and did not go to church. I went to church when I was young but just did not see any miracles going on, so I lost interest. At first, A.A. reminded me of church. Well, it didn’t take me too long to realize that what I had done at the wishing rock was basically what A.A. was saying all along.

I came back from treatment seeing things as if I had a new pair of glasses. I had to start IOP again, but it went quick. I got some community service sanctions ’cause I was having difficulty being on time, but that was ok because I found I really liked being of service—it made me feel good. The Drug Court team saw the change in me, and our interaction took on a new tone. Once I realized that the Drug Court team was not the enemy, just good people with authority and a desire to help me, I really started appreciating having them in my life. So, to make a long story short, I graduated some time ago. I still ask for guidance and wisdom, and it still comes. Drug Court, treatment and A.A. were not the whole of what has made my life good today, but they were crucial. Drug Court gave me the disciplined space to clear my head and my heart and get on to the hero’s journey that is everyone’s destiny if it is chosen.” I have great life today because we have the ability to create in our lives, that’s one of the things that makes us different from the other animals on this planet. “Drug Court gave me the opportunity to learn how to be a better father, husband, son, brother and friend, how to forgive and be forgiven, how to love and be loved, how to appreciate and respect and to be appreciated and respected. I didn’t believe it possible, but I did suspend my disbelief. Drug Court gave me the disciplined space to clear my head and my heart and get on to the hero’s journey that is everyone’s destiny if it is chosen.”David B. Revision P.S. (I continue to grow and feel compelled to share). There is a personal, loving intelligent all powerful force that creates everything, that intelligent force is commonly refered to as God. The word God is derived from an old German word (non masculine) simply meaning “to call upon or invoke( for assistance, support, or inspiration). Call upon that force to help you, think of it as a powerful invisible father that knows everything about you and still loves you and is able to work miracles. Do some invoking, choose Drug Court, may the force be with you. (read about Smith Wigglesworth or John G Lake and their incredible lives. “I’m Jacklynn and before entering Drug Court my life was unmanageable. I had no responsibility, no self respect, I had obtained 10 felonies and was looking at 5 years minimum in prison. Every person I talked to about Drug Court that told me not to do it was currently using, all my loved ones wanted me to do it so I did. My lowest point was when I would not surrender, I went on the run, ended up in jail for months and eventually overdosed while in Drug Court. When I actually started to follow direction I became a Drug Court leader and gained freedom not only from the court system but from myself. I faced many hard things and got through them without using with the help and support of my new found family. Drug Court gave me direction to a new foundation in life. It pushed me to a better way of living. They never gave up on me because I kept coming back. I think Drug Court is a miracle and it saved my life. Not only did it take away 10 felonies but it gave me a new life and a second chance at living. Even if you’re scared or just don’t want a felony on your record, DO IT!!! The worst thing that can happen is you benefit from it and grow.”-Jacklynn “Through Drug Court and my own recovery work I have changed my whole life around, Drug Court has given me my life back, I’ve gone from a career criminal to investing in my future, I am on my way to a new career, a healthy and enriched life. I am so grateful for the chance to have been part of Drug Court” —Jason “Everyone should be so lucky as to have a full staff helping you review your life and correcting poor thought patterns, one of the most profound learning experiences of my life, I wish I had it in my 20’s.”-DLB
“My name is Jason and I was attracted to the people who were getting in trouble my whole life. Through these individuals I learned all about alcohol and drugs. At age 15 I received my first felonies, and by 23 I was sentenced to my first prison term. By the age of 30 I had amounted 5 years of prison and at least 3 – 5 years of county jail time under my belt with a total of 7 felonies and 5 felony points.” “I knew about drug court when they began the program many years ago. My mentality before drug court was “you can come and get me.” I was against everything drug court was about. I would joke about never joining drug court even if I was offered because I was never going to quit selling and/or doing drugs. When I was beaten down and in a state of reasonableness I was ready to not go to prison again and I was willing to try something new even though I thought I could still get high and fool the whole program.” “ I began Drug Court using and living in Tacoma until I was pulled over and arrested for another possession charge. I was released then I missed a treatment session and was told that I turn myself into jail or I go back to prison. I turned myself into jail at 5:30 am that morning and proceeded to stay there until I would go to treatment. I had too many warrants in too many

areas that I was not able to be let out to go to treatment. Instead drug court made a deal with me, I was to be let out if I find a way down to Los Angeles to clear up the warrant I had down there. Little did I know, the bounty hunters from L.A. drove up and arrested me in the lobby of Jefferson County Jail. I was extradited back to L.A. and spent a month locked up in Los Angeles County Jail, which the drug court team kindly counted as inpatient treatment. “I cannot begin to explain how much Drug Court has changed my life. First of all I was given a life for which I never had in the first place. I learned to be accountable to my fellow human beings, and how to be a productive member of my community along with society. I went back to school and became president of student body up at Peninsula College and none of this would have happened if I had not been a part of Drug Court. I am a new person now with hopes, dreams, and aspirations with a clean and sober head to learn how to tackle the goals in my life. I am a better student, father, son, brother, boyfriend, and all around person because of the people of drug court. I am now applying to big universities and belong to a national business and honor society. I would never have been any of this if I had not joined drug court and found out who I am and what I can accomplish.” “My advice is stop fighting everyone and everything! Drug Court can help you succeed and be the person who you were meant to be. Let the drug life go and give yourself at least a year to see what the world has to offer you when you are clean and sober. Use Drug Court as a stepping stone and change the statistics of recidivism in the court system.” “Drug Court is great as it is, but one way to ensure sobriety and success is working a solid program. I believe it’s paramount to work a program of recovery. I personally could not of graduated Drug Court or be the person I am today without working the 12 steps thoroughly. I graduated Drug Court 1 ½ years ago, and I still attend multiple meetings a week and work a solid program of recovery and will for the rest of my life because I love what the program has done to me. If there is one thing that I can suggest more than anything is to jump into NA/AA, get a sponsor, service position, and work the steps. If this can change the career criminal and drug dealer I was, this program can change you ”-Jason Trammel

I am Vince and the oldest child of eight siblings. I had my first drunk at age six with my cousin who was seven (1/2 pint whiskey). I was allergic to alcohol got hives all over my body. Age 7 believed that the world wasn’t fair and that I wanted out! Age 14 to 22 you name it uppers, downers, all-rounders A-Z. Age 17 figured out how to cure a hangover from older coworkers, chemicals uppers. 1976 Age 22 busted for cocaine and pot both felonies first time offender 90days six month suspended 3 years’ probation deferred sentencing piece of cake hand slap. Judge said that he was very impressed with my past record I must have fallen into the wrong crowd of friends. He was right I am an overachiever and very resilient can do kind of guy with a past full of records achievements and accolades but it was all ho hum to me big deal. Age 23-50 I’m a fully blown cocaine and alcoholic addict. The last 20 years daily use “The Maintenance Plan”. I could not function without the chemicals. I was still working holding down a high paying profile jo b to pay for my addiction and associated activities. Water bottle full of 95 proof Beefeaters and a full bindle of cocaine in my t ie. That’s the way I rolled. Living on both sides of the tracks as far as you can get. Living a lie. 2001 Age 50 pulled over blue light special 40 in a 30. Walking and talking like nobody’s business. But I was loaded to the gills Saturday afternoon 2:00pm. I had already finished of a fifth of gin and an eight ball of cocaine and I was holding. Busted, it had been twenty-five year run two divorces, three retirements of money toilet flushed and no legal intervention. The young police officer mentioned that there was a program that could help a guy like me. I said right sure you think I am willing to go through court, jail, probation and treatment again? Not me I would end my life f irst. I’m not doing any of that shit! Well he was right there was a program it is Drug Court. My attorney gave me the option Drug Court or Jail. Easy decision and my charges would be dismissed and to top that it was only going to cost me $600.00 (2001-2002). I was finally going to get something for my tax dollars! This was going to be easy and I will be the best at it and I will be looking good doing it. It’s all about me, myself and I. Not a problem can do. I was wrong it wasn’t easy. It wasn’t easy picking up garbage on the freeways etc., after being sanctioned for violating Drug Cou rt rules. Drug court had their thumb on me until I could do it for myself. I will always be eternally grateful to Drug Court and the Drug Court Team. My life has completely changed since graduating from what I fondly call “The Fellowship of Drug Court”. I continued to work at my job in the manufacturing of original equipment for the next five years. I continued working my program of recovery. Participating with community based sober support 12 step groups and service work for corrections jails and institutions in and around Yakima County WA. But I was not satisfied I had lost the desire to continue working in the field of manufacturing I had been doing it for 40 years and it paid well, medical insurance, bonuses and job security. Something was missing I was dying spiritually. My brother planted a mental seed with me and with a lot of fear I resigned and went back to college after 35 year hiatuses. I excelled even raising my accumulative GPA. Today I am an owner/administrator of a State Certified Chemical Dependency Intensive Out-Patient Agency. They say nothing happens by mistake. I believe that my whole past life history experiences has leaded me to this new life. I have no thoughts of suicide as I did in my past starting at age seven. Today my life has meaning and purpose. The name of the agency is ‘Believe In Recovery’ and I do. Thank You, Drug Court. -Vince Marquis CDP

“My name is Don and on October 31, 2009 my life took a drastic change. I was arrested for drug and firearms charges, With all my prior arrests I was looking at 60-120 months in prison. I really thought my life was over. Little did I know that it was actually going to take a major turn for the better. I had to hit rock bottom before I sought change. I was accepted into Drug Court. For the first time in my life I really wanted something different. I was really scared of a clean and sober life. What was life going to be like? Could I really do this? With the help of the Drug Court team I started my journey. I had my problems along the way but when I surrendered and decided to have an open mind and follow some directions, life got easier. I found a good home group (in my case I found what I was looking for in Alcoholics Anonymous) I got a sponsor and worked the 12 steps. Life got better than I could have ever imagined. I learned how to live life on life's terms. I surrounded myself with clean and sober people. I got involved in service work. I gave back to the communities I had taken so much from. One of the biggest things I learned was being clean and sober was really fun. I found joy in my life for the first time ever. I graduated Drug Court and more than a year later I'm still clean and sober. I still go to meetings I still stay involved. I want to keep what I have. I encourage everybody that wants change in their life to give it a chance. If I can do it ANYBODY can.”-Don P.

“My name is LeAnn. When I came in to Jeff co drug court I had a charge in Jefferson and Kitsap county for meth and delivery, my house in Kitsap has been raided, my kids had been taken by C.P.S., my life was more than a mess I hated myself and had nothing!! I had no hope, was mad, all I wanted was my kids back, and I was accepted into Jeff co drug court and I was doing it all to just get my kids back. I went to treatment classes AA/NA drug court and all the required things they wanted me to do all for my kids. I listened, I cried, overwhelmed with it all, the guilt the shame of what I had done to my kids !!! I just kept doing whatever I was told to do. I saw people start caring about me when I didn’t care about myself. Somewhere along on this journey I started to have hope, started to want a life and wanted this for me as well as for my kids. I was being showed I could do this and there was people on my side that were willing to help me. I had been doing this for about 6 months in Jeff co. I tried getting Kitsap co to let me have my charge transferred to Jeff Co and continue drug court or start drug court in Kitsap and was denied. I started to loose hope but just keep doing what id been doing. Kitsap sent me to prison for a year. Jeff co agreed to keep me case open and let me continue my drug court program upon release. I agreed a lot of people asked why would you do that? Just take the charge your already going to prison, I wanted to finish this and all these people had become my family. They cared about me, supported me, and encouraged me. I wanted this for me. I went to prison for 8 months, went to work release, got a job, went to an Oxford house upon release, and started drug court again. I had missed my drug court family while I was gone. I’ll never forget how welcomed I was when I came back. They are so supportive, worked with me to get my kids back, I had them back within 3 months after my release!!!! I graduated April 15 2010!! One of the Proudest days of my life!!! I had a real life thanks to Drug Court and Safe Harbor. All the wonderful people there that helped give me hope show me how to love myself, and never give up!!! I’ll have 5 yrs clean and sober on 4/12/2013!!! I’ve done so much in the last 5 yrs that I never though possible. I have a great job, got a license, my G.E.D. and my the kids and I have a place of our own, I’m a single mom paying bills on time!!! Giving my kids and myself the life we deserve!!! Yes I still have stresses and struggles but I was given the tools I needed to get through them and not have to use. I’m truly blessed!! A special thanks to Ford K., when I met him he told me he would be my biggest advocate or my worst nightmare and he never let me down, and to my C.P.S. advocate Bill Nesmith who was always there for me. He always believed in me and went above and beyond. He went to drug court with me,

made me believe in myself and picked me up when I fell and never gave up on me. Every day I thank God for putting these people in my life!!! If your reading this and considering drug court I encourage you to just give it a chance, try it!!! Let them help you !! -LeAnn H. “I took pride by saying I would never let my kids be taken away from me. Then it happened last year. My mother took guardianship of my son. I couldn't fight it because I had spent all my money on drugs so had no gas to get to the court proceedings. However, my husband got in trouble and had to accept Drug Court. We've been clean for 10 weeks or so and we are amazed at how our lives have improved! Our teenage girls have come back into our lives, my mother is relinquishing her guardianship next week. My point is this: you will be amazed at the miracles that happen when you start making better decisions, attending meetings, reading the literature and working the steps. What I learned is that my higher power is a forgiving one. He's forgiven me so I should forgive myself! What a burden was lifted off of my shoulders! Today I am a good parent.”-K.K.

“I’m Jody and what got me into Drug Court was an addiction that took me out into places that I would never have considered going when I was sober. I was using and dealing, living a life where I cared about nothing, not even myself. I had heard two viewpoints about Drug Court before signing on. From people who did not want to change there lives I heard that it was a hard program made to keep you in the court system. From people who wanted to change I heard “just hold on, it will be the best thing in your life” and it was. I was not only fighting for my lie with addiction, I had MANY problems that Drug Court gave me the strength and hope to overcome and I did. The biggest surprise was that they were not there to make you fail, rather to lift you up and help you with your success. My life is amazing today, I am a successful member in our community, an amazing mom, family member and friend. I have a support network 24 hours a day, the knowledge I never have to use again and people that can depend on me, it’s a life I never expected. If your REALLY want to change your life, choose Drug Court, then just hang in there and watch the miracle happen, reach out, that’s what they are here for.”-Jody “I’m Joe and I am in Drug Court now. I was earning felony charges everyday and my life was completely unmanageable. The only thing I heard about Drug Court was that you had to be a narc to be in it. They will hold you accountable for your actions and throw you in jail , but that’s cause they care about you, they are here to help. I am sober now and I’ve found a new way to live, without the use of drugs. Take the chance, if you succeed you will change your whole life around.”-Joe “I’m Charles and I suffered from a 13 year addiction of meth and marijuana. I have been involved in a lot of criminal activities, I was caught with meth and offered Drug Court. I had thought Drug Court was just a way to keep tabs on people and keep them on paper. I am coming to terms with the fact that I have an addiction and need the help of the Drug Court team. I have ups and downs, I went out of Drug Court after 6 months of sobriety and went out and used, but I was immediately accepted back in Drug Court and am trying again. My life has changed, my family talks to me and wants me around. People like me now, I don’t owe any money and I have new friends that are sober. Life gets better, what it takes is not using and Drug Court can help make that happen, like a helping hand guiding a child across the street.”-Charles “My name is Jessie and before I entered Drug Court I was an all day drinker with all the intentions in the world of doing something legit and something to be proud of with my life. I wanted to get sober but

did’nt know how to do it. Alcoholics Anonamous did’nt for whatever reason come to mind as a way to get sober. After the last time I got arrested I was at an all time love in my life. I was far to depressed to actually give a damn about anything other than my self. I drank because I was depressed and was depressed because I drank. I hadn’t really heard anything about Drug Court before I entered other than it was real hard to make it through. Every one said I would fail or opt out. In the beginning it was scary and I wasn’t sure of what I got myself into. After time went I got more confident in my AA program and being in my own skin. I made myself do what was suggested of me even if I didn’t want to knowing that they wanted to help me with my recovery. Today my life is a completely different life than I used to live, for the better! I wouldn’t change anything about my lie today. Take this opportunity with an open mind and open ears. This chance is here to help us turn our lives around. They make the suggestions for us and it’s up to us to do the foot work.”-Jessie “I’m Andrew and my life was an absolute wreck before I was offered the opportunity to join Drug Court, drinking had taken over every single aspect of my life. I honestly had heard nothing about Drug Court before my lawyer told me about it. I owe this program my life, it has become so much more calm, nothing seems to get me down. I still get frustrated and anxious but I am able to handle my problems in an appropriate manner. If you really want help this is it! If your heart isn’t really in it and you’re just trying to squash a felony please find another option because someone else needs and wants this.”-Andrew C.
“My name is Ricky and before I got into Drug Court I was homeless for the better part of a year. I was addicted to drugs and was injecting meth and heroin daily. I genuinely wanted to get sober and tried everything I could think of to get clean. I got caught up in a controlled and was arrested for possession of heroin. I didn’t know what to think of Drug Court before I came in, a friend was in Kitsap Drug Court, failed and was kicked out so I knew it wasn’t going to be easy. When I came into Drug Court I tried to do it my own way, I was still using and thought I could do it my way and I failed. I ended up getting kicked out of treatment and went on the run. I ended up in jail and realized that I need to do this, I need to get clean. After I decided to do this thing my life has changed dramaticly. I have my own house, I have friends that love me, a car, a job and a girl friend. I can go on forever about how much my life has changed, I’m actually happy for the first time in my life and love the person I am. Drug Court is an awesome thing. It’s not just about getting clean, it’s about getting your life back and Drug Court will bend over backwards for you if you are trying to do the right thing.”- Ricky M.

Prosecutor Scott Rosencrantz takes notes of what he hears from members during Drug Court each week, he reads them back at the graduation ceremony, here’s a selection he has given us to share, do any of these sound like something you would like to be able to say? DO IT FOR YORSELF “I’m having fun without pills or drinking, I don’t have to drink or be high to fit in.” “Happier than I’ve ever been” “Grateful for the strength the program has given me” “I am surrounded by people who care about me” “I look back at where I’ll never have to be again” “I love having people I can talk to” “Starting GED classes.” “Having fun, enjoying life, I feel alive”

“Drug Court Notable Quotes”

“I now have goals and self esteem” “Life is fantastic, I’m grateful for recovery, I feel human again” “I went to a concert sober and remember all of it”. “Had a fantastic Christmas, haven’t had a normal one for over 5 years, I’m not returning presents for drugs.” “I was so tired of being on the run.” “I volunteered at the homeless shelter” “I have discovered how powerful prayer is, I look for miracles in my life now and I find them.” “I asked myself many times why did I turn into who I had become, and finally I found the answer, then it became easy to turn into who I am now.” “Because of Drug Court, my life has been restored. I have peace in my heart.” “I got my GED and am thinking about going back to school.” “ I spoke to a youth group and am working at putting one together.” “Good things are coming my way.” “Crossing over to the other side, now I have goals and self esteem”. “Feels good to get priorities straight”. “I have learned to face my fears”.” “I can’t deny something magical is happening”. “Researching schools online.” “Seek and ye shall find, ask and ye shall receive” is a great truth and a powerful tool, I use it for good now.” “Got a bunch of God shots in a row, was invited to and joined a bible study”. “My heart is whole again”. “God is talking to me”. “I like who I am now, I feel human again”. “Was honest with employer at the interview and got the job anyway”. “I really appreciate the forgiveness and compassion I have experienced and I have discovered that everyone else does too.” “My sister asked me to baby sit, she would not let me around them when I was using.” “The family reunion went well, they were all glad to see me, I knocked out about 30 amends at one time.” “I had a problem with success, things were always going wrong, now things are working out.” “Something has switched in my head, I’m waking up in a good mood.” “I can take things head on.” “I’m working 6 days a week.” “I am grateful for the opportunity to sit at this table, you have become my family, I will be sad when I graduate and leave”.

DO IT FOR YOUR KIDS/FAMILY
“I’m willing to do whatever it takes to see my kid, can’t live without her so that’s why I’m doing this.” “I made amends to my family, I have my extended family back and they were excited to have me back” “My daughter has friends over now and is not embarrassed by me” “So nice to be a part of my son’s routine, he doesn’t have to wonder if I’ll come back”. “My life is full with family, work and recovery” “Had coffee with my Dad this weekend” “Colored Easter eggs with my daughter”. “Always felt ashamed because my dad was not proud of me, we’ve both changed.” “Played guitar with my son.” “Talked to my kids about going to jail. “ “Awesome to hear the teacher wants me to come to the school.” “ I don’t want my kids to go through what I have, it’s up to me to break the cycle and become a good example of how to live right so we can all be happy, I wasn’t able to do it on my own, this is one of the best things that has happened in my life.” “My son is listening to what I have to say”. “Went to church with my little girl”.

“Worked on a science project with my daughter”. “Doing parent things now”. “Went on a field trip with my daughter”. “Home life is good”. “I have finally seen what addiction had done to my family”. “Had Thanksgiving with my father and brothers, first time in 18 years”. “Held my twelve year old in my lap” “I feel like a good dad”. “Don’t have to worry about my 10 year old riding up to the drug house to see me.”

Family Feedback
Hi my name is Samantha and it used to be my dad was gone alot, he used to be really tired when he was here and he was mad a lot of the time. He and mom would fight and that made me sad and scared too. I did not like my friends to see him sometimes. The last time he was arrested he had to start going to classes and court. He started feeling better right away and that made me feel better too. After a year he finished his classes and when he graduated at the courthouse I was really proud of him. Lots of people came to the graduation and said good things about my dad. He is so different now, he plays with me and my brother and helps with home work, he even comes to my school sometimes. He works at a new job now and has friends that are nice. We are happier now and I want to thank the judge for making my dad better and I hope he canl help other dads and moms too. Hello my name is Daniel, and I am 26. My father went through drug court three years ago and it has made a huge difference, we (my sister, mom and I) went from a broken family without a father figure, to a real loving atmosphere where I am building a relationship with this man who helped raise me. Drug court and the people involved gave my Dad the tools necessary to put drugs in the past and move forward toward a full recovery, I got my Dad back.

My name is Sierra, I’m 23 and I would like to tell you about something dear to my heart, my relationship with my father. You see my father was a drug addict since before I was born, and growing up I didn’t know what was wrong with him. As a little girl I remember thinking he was moody, unreliable, and had a short fuse. I knew there was something strange about my dad, he was different than my friend’s dads. This continued through my entire childhood. I couldn’t stand it. I would not see him for weeks at a time, and when he’d finally come home we would sleep for hours twitching and jerking around as though there was a beast trapped inside his body trying to escape. I remember getting my hopes up when he said he would do something with me, and how crushed I was every time when he flaked out. I was shocked that he even made it to my high school graduation. I remember my mother and father fighting all the time, I didn’t understand that he was on drugs, I just thought that there was no such thing as a happy and functional marriage. These interactions with my father affected me and my relationships. As I said I did not believe that there was such a thing as a happy marriage, that was deeply rooted in my subconscious as a child and as I grew older I started dating men like with similar characteristics as my father. Men who were users, emotionally disconnected, unreliable, unsupportive and so forth. I guess you could say we were all on our way to Hell in a hand basket, then something happened.

The day before my 18th birthday my dad got busted. I was dumbfounded, I had no idea that he’d been an addict my entire life, I just thought he was a washout, finally it made sense why he’d been a wreck my whole life. I remember being shocked, confused and incredibly angry. I remember secretly hoping he would receive a prison sentence. I was angry because his selfish choices of drugs over my family and it left me with twisted perceptions of life and an impaired childhood. How could he have the nerve to do such a volatile thing to us? My family and I were blessed and my father was given the option to do drug court, and he chose to do it. My father’s involvement in drug court was a pinnacle for bringing our family together. I’m grateful for his experience with the program because I now have a priceless connection with my father that I didn’t even know was a possibility. I’m now 23 years old and talk to my father almost daily, I call him when I need advice, we go on adventures together, he’s reliable, and the person I needed in my life. Through my father’s process of healing himself and working through his addiction issues we were able to heal our relationship and start anew. My life changed because my father changed his life. I cannot offer enough words of appreciation for what drug court has done for my father and our family. I’m blessed to finally have a real father in my life.

I am grateful to once again have a loving husband and friend who I can depend on to be where he says he will be and do what he says he will do, a life friend that is present and a spiritual mentor to his family and friends. To share space with a man who now has a strong sense of what his life path is and is dedicating his life forces to others in recovery being a support, witness, mentor and researcher. I am grateful to the Drug Court Team for their dedication, support and love they so generously offer to all who choose the Drug Court option, The framework of Drug Court structure, accountability, discipline and love gave someone I love dearly an opportunity to find himself, his soul and God outside the influence of substance abuse. To like what he saw and radiate his true self. I am grateful and blessed to have a renewed relationship with the man I married 39 year ago. Without Drug Court I am not sure that would have been the case. It is a profound program, if you give it a chance it can change everything. This program gives you the potential to change everything, you just have to say yes, I want to change. In gratitude-Mariann

Pilgrims Progress
Pilgrim-“One who embarks on a quest for something thought of as sacred.” We just had 3 people graduate. These are some of the notes the prosecutor took through out the year that he read back at the graduation, they are kept in order so you can see the changes as each of these heros progresses through the program. JESSIE was a different person when drinking, he had placed his family in fear and had completely severed relations with them, he had 2 previous DUI arrests and was less than cooperative with the Police, here are some of his statements. “I am making contact with my family. Talked to my Grandmother, we’re going to lunch. I feel good about life. I’m the happiest I’ve been in years. I talked to my mom on the phone on Mothers Day. Made amends with my brother. I will make amends with mom this weekend. I’m talking with my mom. My relationship with my mom will fail if I stop treatment. I am talking with my mom regularly. My sisters birthday was on Sunday, the family dinner went well and I hung out with my mom. My dad is in the program (AA) now, we may start going to meetings together now. I had my mom and sister over for a barbeque. I worked the Wooden Boat Festival and enjoyed interacting with people. I’m having mom over for my birthday dinner. Mom said she was proud of me, that was the best birthday gift I’ve ever gotten. My grandmother had a stroke, I was able to say goodbye to her. I’m hanging out at moms house this weekend. I’m making Christmas presents this week. I hung out with my brother, we played guitar and had a nice family dinner, it’s nice to have that back.”-Jessie

“ANDREW will tell you that Andrew and alcohol don’t mix well, but he is honest. He told the arresting officer “I’m a little bit loaded and can’t do that test”. When asked about his car in the ditch he responded “No I parked it like that”. When asked if he believed his ability to drive was affected by his alcohol usage he said “Yes, yes, yes sir I do”. On his first day in Drug Court he said “I’m here because I’m a drunk, this is my chance for a clean break”. “I’m living with my grandmother, it’s a good environment and she cooks me breakfast every morning. My focus is getting better. My grandmother is getting forgetful so I’m trying to do as much as I can. I had a good Christmas with the family. I like Drug Court, I finally started working the steps for real (after 4 months). I’m turning my life over to the care of God, I didn’t want to do it, I fought it but I’m proud for actually doing it. I volunteered at the Recyclery. I’m noticing behavioral changes in myself, I’m enjoying life. I got a job! I want to get my Dad playing golf again. I spent time with my Dad, the first time in months. I’m having fun being sober and work is good. My golf game is good. It’s a good opportunity to be here, I didn’t think I would see the benefit in it. Feels good to have made it.” –Andrew TOBIAS said he got saved in jail just before entering Drug Court, many people scoff at that but jail is a target rich environment. God has you where he wants you and where he needs you. One word to best describe Tobias now is “redeemed”, he shines like the stars in the universe and is a beacon and a guide to other-Scott “The problem really is me. I have a job and I’m excited about it. I’m working on integrity. The N.A. meetings are going well in Quilcene. You really do reap what you sow. I owe my life to Drug court and God. I got my license back, driving legally is great. I have a problem with success. My grandpa said he was proud of what I was accomplishing. I got a raise at work. I need to be an example for my brother. Got arrested on an old charge in Kitsap County so I carried the message to the inmates. I went to see my grandpa in the hospital, he’s not doing good. My grandpa said I was a good grandson and that he was proud of me. I’m getting a good group of sober friends to hang out with. I spent time with my Dad and am starting to build a relationship with him. My grandpa died, he got to see me sober. A friend died, I handled it without drugs or alcohol. Alliance one drained my bank account, I am working through the anger. My addiction is very cunning, I wanted to drink but I fought it off. I’m going to my Aunt’s for Christmas. I spent Christmas with my Dad for the first time ever! I celebrated New Years Eve with sober people. I trust that God has his hand in this. I’m real happy with where I am at.”-Tobias

Drug Court Team, Courthouse & Community En-courage-ment.
"I usually receive an invitation to attend the Drug Court Graduation from Safe Harbor Recovery Center and also from Court Administrator Michelle Lorand. It is an honor for me to be able to attend the graduations. The graduates have worked so hard in their recovery, and for them to share this moment with me is very touching. To hear of their success is truly a wonderful way to start the day. Drug Court is an opportunity given to you that can help you change your life and the destructive path you are going down. You will need to work very hard, and it will be worth it, because you will wake up each and every morning, feeling great and knowing that many people support you and your recovery. You can do it, and you're worth it!" Donna M. Eldridge-Jefferson County Auditor "I prepare and run the Drug Court graduation power point presentations. It has been an amazing opportunity watching people go through the changes required to become drug and alcohol free and become productive members of our community. My son died at the age of 19 in 2009 from 6 weeks of experimenting with drugs and alcohol. He died from a lethal combination of antidepressant (prescribed) vodka and methadone (not prescribed). Unfortunately we didn't have

a chance to determine my son had a problem before I was sitting next to his hospital bed at age 19 telling him goodbye. These losses are 100% preventable and devastating to the friends, family and loved ones left behind. Drug Court is tough but if it is something you really want then you can do it." Michelle Lorand-Jefferson County Superior Court Administrator My name is Kathy Morgan, I currently work for OlyCAP. I manage their housing division. I have been a Real-estate Broker for over 23. I started working for OlyCAP 5 years ago. I was asked to attend by Ford for my housing experience and ability to get housing for hard to serve tenants. My son is in Drug Court. I stayed out of this for over one year to let him figure this out on his own. I really did not know much about it. I knew most of the participants from working at OlyCAP. When I started attending by request of Ford I was so impressed with all the participants. The stories they tell and the fact that they are so honest with their recovery. I understand why my son takes this so serious and grateful that he does. All the people my son was hanging with are dead. My son that never got into trouble decided when he was 18 to start shooting up heroin. I was horrified and did not know what to do as a parent. He is my youngest and the baby in the family. I am pleased he is taking ownership of this. I have heard him talk about Drug Court and what they would and wouldn’t allow. Many times my son came to me and said that he can’t make it through this without Drug Court. I found that very intense coming from him. I know for an absolute fact and so does my son that without the help of Drug Court my son would not be alive. Drug court not only saved my son’s life but brought back the sweet, intelligent, kind and caring son back to us. For the first time the other day in Drug Court I actually heard him tell the court he is happy, he said it three times. It made me cry because I have not heard him say that since he was younger. As I now have the pleasure to work with some of the participants I am in awe of their tenacity. They are my hero’s because it takes a lot of courage to go through something so profound and life changing. My hope for someone considering Drug Court is if they want to live or be the person they always thought they would be, DO IT. They have not come to this decision because they are doing good things with their life, they really have nothing to lose. I think I would challenge them and let them know that it would take a lot of courage and hard work but the alternative is way worse and they were already walking down that path. In the words of John Wayne “Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway”. "I work in the court house and attend almost all the graduations. The best part is I really like seeing the change in those that are graduating, it is heart warming, and for the most part its always a good thing to have Kleenex close by. One of the saddest things was when a graduate was arrested the same night they graduated. When that happened I felt that it has some sort of effect on me even though I didn't know him personally. If someone I knew was offered Drug Court I would say everything possible to convince them to get into the program and if needed I would escort them in on a weekly basis." Karen Cartmel-Jefferson County Chief Deputy Auditor/Elections Coordinator "I first became a Superior Court Commissioner in 2004 and from time to time would fill in for Judge Crad Verser on the Drug Court team. At times it was awkward for me to do so because I never was able to get to know the participants well enough to regularly carry on a meaningful discussion with them. Since becoming the full-time Judge in 2013, I have thoroughly enjoyed my

experience with Drug Court and my high regard for the program is confirmed day in and day out. After 32 years of practicing law, I strongly believe that alcohol and drug abuse is the major contributor to people’s problems with the criminal law, their relationships and their personal lives. The Drug Court program is excellent in helping people receive both the support and discipline to learn how to deal with and control their addictions. Each member of the Drug Court team sincerely develops a relationship with each participant, cares about their well-being and wants to see them succeed. I personally have enjoyed learning of each participant’s story, their interests and ambitions and of their progress in improving their lives. At times the Drug Court team has to be firm and impose sanctions; however, we try to do so in such a way that ultimately helps the participant successfully continue with and complete the program. Entering the Drug Court program is not necessarily the easy way out. However, it can be the most positive and fulfilling way to effectively deal with substance abuse and change your life.” Keith Harper-Jefferson County Superior Court Judge and Drug Court Team "I had looked into starting a Drug Court over a decade ago when I was a prosecutor in a small Texas county. When I came to Jefferson County I was excited to learn we had a Drug Court. It has been more than I expected, It is the most effective program I have seen. It works because they do all the work. It has been exciting to see the transformation of these lives. I am amazed at how intelligent these people are once the fog lifts. If someone I knew with a drug problem was offered Drug Court I would beg them not to turn it down." Scott Rosekrans-Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney and Drug Court Team. "I had the honor and privilege of presiding over Drug Court for ten months while our Superior Court Judge was on medical leave. Initially knowing little about substance abuse and recovery, I soon learned the incredible amount of courage, sacrifice, and perseverance it takes to successfully complete the Drug Court program. I developed a deep admiration for the Drug Court participants, as well as for the recovery process itself. I recommend that everyone read “The Big Book” which has valuable life lessons not only for those in recovery but for each of us." Peggy Ann Bierbaum -Former Jefferson County Superior Court Commissioner and Drug Court Team "I thoroughly enjoy my work as the Drug Court defense attorney. Being able to participate in helping people overcome the adversity presented by addiction related issues is one of the more rewarding things I get to do as an attorney. Drug Court is a rigorous and demanding program that can be a transformative experience for those who are willing to put in the work. I would recommend Drug Court to anyone who struggles with drug or alcohol addiction and is looking to make positive changes in their lives, as Drug Court can provide the structure needed to make those changes." -Nathan Poston Criminal Defense attorney and Jefferson County Drug Court Team
“I am Ford Kessler, the last of the founding members of this Drug Court. I also serve as the Jefferson County Drug and Alcohol Coordinator and the owner of Safe harbor Recovery Center. I originally got involved with the Drug Court process at the invitation/urging of former Judge tom Mahan. I have stayed with the Drug Court because I believe it works and I have been honored to watch many people participate and graduate. There have been some that have continued in their recovery and I am friends with them today. Even for those that don’t make it, it gives them the opportunity to get some education and make changes that hopefully will help them down the road. I highly recommend that a person at least give Drug Court a chance. It may be the one opportunity to turn their life around and get out of the judicial system and become functioning members of society. I believe that they deserve to have a better life, even if they don’t.” Ford Kessler-Jefferson County Drug Court Administrator

“I am Richard Davies criminal defense attorney and an original founding member of the Jefferson County Drug Court. My initial reaction to establishing a drug court here was one of suspicion. I’ve always thought that the so called war on drugs was poor social policy, and thought this was just another way to transfer resources from people in need to those that don’t. What could a system complicit in punishing poverty and desperation possibly offer its victims?” “The answer, much to my surprise, is: a solution! One that encourages, albeit coercively at times, people to put their lives back together rather than punishing them for letting their lives come apart. The participants do the hard work on themselves and they, their families and our community reap the rewards. It is such a more effective way to promote and protect a healthy community than locking us all up and throwing away the key.” “Drug Court is for people who are sick and tired of being sick and tired. It's not the easy way out, by any means. You've got to shuffle back and forth to treatment, submit to random drug tests, and show up in court every Thursday morning bright eyed and bushy tailed or at least faking it. And you can fake it, to start with anyway - a lot of people have - but not one of them successfully gets through it without turning their life around. So it's either around and around you go with your lawyer doing a little fancy dance every time, singing "it ain't your dope, or they ain't your pants, or it ain't your pocket they found it in." That's the easiest thing for you to do. And around and around is where you end up. Or get with the program. It’s an opportunity to keep a felony off your record, but more importantly it’s an opportunity for you to turn your life around and believe it or not, you'll end up thanking the system.-Richard Davies, criminal defense attorney and a founding member of the Jefferson County Drug Court.

this field for over 25 years. I have worked as a Community Corrections Officer, a Community Corrections Field Supervisor, as well as a Supervisor for two state run work releases. My primary duties involve transitioning offenders back into the community, developing case management plans, monitoring court and DOC conditions and expectations, referring offenders to various programs such as cd treatment, mental health, domestic violence and such. I write reports to the court, testify in hearings, work with various other agencies in the community, as well as mitigate risk. When needed I will arrest and confine offenders who choose not to be in compliance.” “I was around during the development and startup of Drug Court in both Kitsap and Clallam Counties. I have been a strong supporter of the Drug Court Model since it was implemented in Washington. Dealing with addictions can help promote change. I believe in compassion AND accountability. It is possible to balance both. Drug Court does this.” “My experience in Drug Court was everything I expected and more. There is true power in using the peer group in drug court. While it is important to have the much needed support of those around them the real strength comes from within the person when they accept the fact they indeed are powerless over their addiction and want a better life.” “I believe Drug Court is truly the best opportunity out there for those who feel the need to change and are willing to complete a program which can be very difficult at times. For some the easy way out is just go to jail and continue on the same path of darkness. For those ready to make the commitment for sobriety it is a chance of a lifetime and life changing”. Frank Ohley-Department of Corrections, Community Corrections Division
“In Seattle we see people coming in homeless, struggling with dental problems like you can’t imagine, filthy, scared, traumatized and we see them walking out of here reunited with their children and with jobs.” Tom Essex King County Drug Court case manager

“I am Frank Ohley, I work for Washington State Department of Corrections. I have worked in

DRUG COURT IN THE NATIONAL NEWS
MARTIN SHEEN LOBBIES SENATE FOR DRUG COURTS Christina Wilke /The Huffington Post
WASHINGTON -- Actor Martin Sheen pressed senators to expand federal funding for drug courts on Tuesday during testimony before a Senate Judiciary subcommittee. "Our nation's greatest untapped resource is our addicted citizens," Sheen said. "There is no better investment this Congress can make than in drug courts and veterans courts." Sheen described how he had helped to found one of the earliest drug court systems, called Options, in Berkeley, Calif., in 1996. Today, he said, drug courts handle approximately 120,000 cases a year. Sheen was joined at the hearing by "Friends" star Matthew Perry, Phish frontman Trey Anastasio and actor Harry Lennix, who all sat directly behind him in the committee room. Also present in the audience was former Rep. Jim Ramstad (R-Minn.), an outspoken advocate for addiction recovery programs during his time in the House. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.) thanked Ramstad for attending, and pointed out that when another member of Congress, former Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.) struggled with addiction, "it was Jim Ramstad who went to stand at his side." Witnesses also emphasized the cost savings to state and local governments of drug courts and veterans courts. According to Marlow, the cost of a year in treatment, on average, is around $7,000, while the cost of incarceration is approximately $22,000. Sheen spoke passionately about what he has seen among drug court graduates in recovery, saying "you witness a fragile, extraordinary change, where a person who has been suffering under all this chaos and baggage [emerges] to the miraculous possibility and hope of coming back to their community." Sheen is a recovering alcoholic, and during the past year his son Charlie Sheen has publicly dealt with his longstanding substance abuse problems.

Trey Anastasio, Phish Frontman, Tells Addiction Story On Capitol Hill, Lobbies For Drug Courts
Ryan Grims-Huffington Post

Washington--Phish's floppy-haired frontman is sporting a sharp, navy blue suit, which can only mean one of two things.
And he isn't in a courtroom, so he must be on Capitol Hill, lobbying. "My name is Trey Anastasio, and I'm a recovering alcoholic and a proud graduate of the Washington drug court program," he tells a gathering of drug court professionals and supportive members of Congress. In 2006, Anastasio was sent to drug court in Washington County, New York, after getting pulled over drunk and arrested for possession of pills he was addicted to in Whitehall. "My life had become a catastrophe. I had no idea how to turn it around. My band had broken up. I had almost lost my family. My whole life had devolved into a disaster," he says. "I believe that the police officer who stopped me at three a.m. that morning saved my life." He spent 14 months in the drug court system, he says, scrubbing toilets and cleaning fairgrounds. "I've been sober for twoand-a-half years," he says to applause. "My children are happy. In August, my wife and I will celebrate our fifteenth wedding anniversary. My band is back together with a sold-out tour. And in September I'll play a solo concert at Carnegie Hall with the New York Philharmonic." His presence might aid the cause, but drug courts are among those rare programs that don't need to rely on anecdotes alone, because they work, and prisons don't. Anastasio saw it first-hand when he missed a treatment appointment and was sent to jail for two days. "I can tell you that behind bars there was rampant drug use," he says. "What's more, the people I met there spent their time blaming judges and lawyers for their circumstances. Not in drug court. In drug court, full responsibility rests with you and you alone." Drug courts, meanwhile, produce graduates intent on staying out of prison. Nationally, 75 percent of graduates stay out of jail for at least two years after leaving the program, a rate that the "corrections" industry could never dream of attaining. Following Anastasio, one member of Congress after another takes the podium to rail against current drug polices. "What an indictment it is of our system of justice," says Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) of the millions behind bars, saying the nation is "criminalizing a public health problem." The idea that drug addiction is a health problem rather than a criminal one is catching on in Democratic circles. With major health care reform on the horizon, the timing couldn't be better for drug court advocates, says Rep. Sam Farr (D-Calif.). In closing I hope that this has helped you with your decision. If you choose Drug Court you can make it one of the most important and best decisions of your life. If you do it with an attitude of gratitude and a desire to learn and change it will be a great experience. Trust that Drug Court has been created to help you create a happy life for yourself and your family. -David

Jody K. an old using aquaintance called me few weeks ago, I had not talked with her since I went through Drug Court a few years ago. She said she heard I was doing really well and was happy for me. She told me she had been in Drug Court about 10 years ago (I did not know that), got about half way through and dropped out. She told me how foolish she had been looking back at it all now. She got into worse trouble, and is 45 years old now with a felony and a habit and life is difficult, it is hard to find work. She told me how she realized how much the Drug Court people really cared about her. I told her I would put that in this booklet, it might help someone else do better. Another friend of mine that went through Drug Court and went back to the old ways told me how everything has changed for the worse, it is not the same, the fun is all over now he is just living at home, not working, sick, broke and no drivers license. Everyone he runs with is causing trouble or in trouble, he is missing a lot more teeth too. Last week I went to the 3rd annual Drug Court campout. One of my old using friends Chris P. was there, he just started Drug Court 3 months ago, he looked great. He told me how after I had gotten clean and left the drugging scene (thanks to Drug Court) his troubles just continued to get more frequent and more serious. He landed in jail facing serious time and heard about Drug Court from someone that was in Drug Court and in jail for a dirty UA. The guy told him what a great program it was and that he should do it. He thought about it that night and next day made the discision to try and get in, his life was going horribly, not at all like he had dreamed, he wanted to change and this was the way. He got in and was really thrilled about it when I saw him, he had hopes and dreams and a job, I was happy for him.

Lady justice is derived from Justitia the Roman goddess of justice an allegorical personification of the moral force in the judicial system. Lady Justice is most often depicted with a set of scales typically suspended from her left hand, upon which she measures the strengths of a case's support and opposition. She is also often seen carrying a double-edged sword in her right hand, symbolizing the power of Reason and Justice, which may be wielded either for or against any party. She wears a blindfold represents objectivity. The lady justice of Drug Court is different, she has raised her blindfold and with eyes wide open reaches out with a helping hand to the addicted.

The easiest and worst choice is to fight your charges it or go to jail, the best and smartest choice to do is go through Drug Court with the plan to have a successful life and happy life drug free.

Sponsor Documents

Or use your account on DocShare.tips

Hide

Forgot your password?

Or register your new account on DocShare.tips

Hide

Lost your password? Please enter your email address. You will receive a link to create a new password.

Back to log-in

Close