Carson City's misdemeanor drug treatment court continues aim to recovery at 5-year mark
Judge Thomas R. Armstrong is proud to have fulfilled his promise to help young adults change their lives, stop the cycle of addiction, and make Carson City a safer place.
It was five years ago that the Misdemeanor Treatment Court began with the support and collaboration of Jason D. Woodbury, Carson City District Attorney, Karin L. Kreizenbeck, State of Nevada Public Defender, Ken Furlong, Carson City Sheriff, Chief Tad N. Fletcher, Department of Alternative Sentencing, and Community Counseling Center.
This past year, Carson City Health and Human Services has joined the team providing supportive services for participants including housing alternatives to prevent homelessness, job search/resume building and life skills. Since its inception, 247 participants have participated in the 12-month program and 79 number of participants have graduated and 6 drug-free babies have been born.
When asked if the program has been worthwhile, Judge Armstrong replied, “I am proud of the program, I am proud of the community support for the program, and I am very proud of the men and women who have shown uncommon commitment to their recovery and becoming better citizens.”
Judge Armstrong, in conjunction with representatives from law enforcement, prosecution, defense attorneys, probation, and treatment professionals develop a plan that addresses the safety of the community and the treatment needs of each participant, specifically targeting 18 to 25 year old addicted offenders whose untreated addiction to substances appears to contribute to their criminal conduct.
Participants are required to attend court weekly for the first three months and then less often if they are compliant with the program rules. Due to COVID-19, video conferencing is being utilized for court appearances and other components of the program.
Substance abuse treatment, counseling, and random drug testing are required. Through this comprehensive approach and active supervision by the Alternative Sentencing Department, participants are given the tools and support they need to lead a crime and drug-free lifestyle.
In the 78th Session of the Legislature, funding was passed and allocated to the Nevada Supreme Court to assist with implementing new Specialty Courts and expanding existing programs. Carson City Justice/Municipal Court continues to apply for funding from the Nevada Supreme Court to support the program. In 2020, the program was awarded $23,965. Grant funding remains a critical need for the program to continue to operate.
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