Pubdate: Tue, 18 Jan 2005
Source: Pacific Daily News (US GU)
Copyright: 2005 Pacific Daily News
Contact: http://www.guampdn.com/customerservice/contactus.html
Website: http://www.guampdn.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1122
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?159 (Drug Courts)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/testing.htm (Drug Test)

EXAMPLE: FIRST GRADUATES ARE STANDARD
BEARERS FOR THE ADULT DRUG COURT

Last week, the Superior Court of Guam's Adult Drug Court graduated 11 men 
and women who successfully completed the two-year program.

These graduates -- the first from the relatively new Adult Drug Court -- 
had to undergo regular therapy sessions, routine drug testing and various 
rehabilitation classes, on top of regular court appearances, over the last 
two years. In exchange, they not only avoided incarceration but also got 
the drug charges wiped off their records.

The Drug Court is a more cost-effective way of dealing with drug offenders, 
according to Judge Alberto Lamorena. Not only does incarceration cost more, 
but it's hard to tell whether those who serve time in prison learn from 
their mistakes.

The success of these individuals bodes well for the future of the Adult 
Drug Court. These graduates are proof the program works. They show that 
it's not necessary to incarcerate every individual who breaks the law -- 
that given the opportunity and access to the right resources, positive 
change that's good not just for the individual but the community, as well 
can be effected.

These 11 graduates now have the burden of not only being the standard 
bearers for the program, but also the examples looked up to by others in 
their situations. Fortunately, the last two years has put them in position 
to handle this responsibility.

We encourage each and everyone of the men and women who successfully 
graduated from the Adult Drug Court to make the most of this fresh start. 
Be grateful for this second chance, because there are many others who 
aren't as fortunate. Don't waste this opportunity. Be a better family 
member, a better member of the community, a better citizen.

We commend all of the people who make the Drug Court the success that it 
is. Your hard work and dedication is making a real difference in this 
community. You have our thanks and our appreciation. And to the Drug Court 
graduates, you have our congratulations and our best wishes. 
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