Drug Court shares success stories

State Sen. John Proos and a small number of state officials witnessed firsthand Monday the success stories emerging from a program through St. Joseph County Circuit Court.
Overseen by Judge Paul Stutesman, Monday’s “Drug Court” provided status updates on eight participants in the program. Funded in part through state and federal grants, Drug Court is a two-year program that aids people with breaking drug dependency. In addition, it provides critical tools to help them find and maintain a job, become better parents and, essentially, have the opportunity for a fresh start.
Stutesman said many of the people he sees in Drug Court have a common denominator: a troubled childhood, raised in a broken home, dropped out of high school and poor budgeting skills were a few of the examples he cited.
Stutesman told Proos programs such as Drug Court and “Swift and Sure” are making a difference, and so are rehabilitation centers such as Twin County Probation Center.
Stutesman reiterated the need for adequate funding, especially for options such as Twin County.
Proos, chair of the judiciary and corrections budgets, said he is committed to making sure resources are available for the growth of specialty courts.