Pubdate: Thu, 03 May 2007 Source: Maui Weekly (HI) Copyright: 2007, Maui Weekly Contact: http://www.mauiweekly.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2345 Author: Grace Agapay ANTI-DRUG BOOT CAMP Hawai'i's drug problem has increased significantly throughout the last decade. The Maui Drug Court's current programs are not enough to reduce the drug problems we have on the island. Although studies have concluded boot camps have not shown significant impacts on participants and they have substantial costs to society, I believe the Maui Drug Court should include a boot camp that focuses less on military and physical training, and includes a greater focus on education, counseling and employment. Why? Because other states with similar programs found significant improvements in lowering recidivism rates and costs, and in participants' behavior and attitudes. Wisconsin's Challenge Incarceration Program, Nevada's High Step Boot Camp and O'ahu's Adult Drug Court Program have successfully helped to lower recidivism rates. Boot camps have also helped once drug offenders become more productive members of society--at a lower cost than keeping them in prison. Maui should vote to add boot camp in drug courts! Grace Agapay Pukalani - --- MAP posted-by: Elaine