Sedgwick County Celebrates Graduates of Drug Court Program
(Sedgwick County, Kan.) – Today, the Sedgwick County Department of Corrections (SCDOC) proudly celebrated 25 graduates from the Sedgwick County Drug Court Program, helping offenders overcome addiction and live crime-free. Families, friends, program staff and county supporters celebrated as participants received certificates and coins signifying their successful completion of the 18- to 24-month substance abuse treatment program.
“Completing Drug Court is a significant achievement,” says Monica Harris, Sedgwick County Specialty Courts Administrator. “Participants have completed a rigorous and lengthy process involving treatment, supervision and ongoing court appearances – all while managing work, family, paying restitution and working to rebuild the damage caused by their criminal behavior.”
The Drug Court concept began in Florida in 1989, and the State of Kansas has 14 Drug Courts that treat offenders who are on probation because of criminal behavior resulting from a substance abuse disorder. Since Sedgwick County started its Drug Court in 2008, the program has proven effective in reducing drug use and criminal behavior significantly in our community. More than 450 participants have completed the program, which is a collaboration between SCDOC, the 18th Judicial District Court, the Office of the District Attorney, Sedgwick County COMCARE and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office.
“We’ve seen firsthand that long-term treatment and supervision lead to far better outcomes than incarceration. Participants are more successful in recovery and less likely to reoffend. It’s a win for both the graduates and the community,” Harris said.