Program organizers highlight the strides made in the treatment of accused criminals with substance abuse and mental health issues. ALBANY - Reflecting on its first full calendar year of operation, program organizers for a groundbreaking rehabilitation program for criminal offenders say its mental health participants are again on the straight-and-narrow. The substance abuse clients, however, have proven to be the "tough nut to crack," said Superior Court Judge Stephen Goss. "It's the nature of the addiction," Goss said, referring to clients not wanting long-term help for their substance abuse problem. [continues 288 words]
An Albany Officer Is Lauded For Putting The Hurt On Pot Dealers At An Area School. ALBANY -- It was unlike anything Westover High School's principal had seen in his 12 years at the school. And it's definitely not something he wants to see again. Principal Gene Melvin is grateful to Cpl. Freddy Baker, the school's resource officer and the "COP Officer of the Month" for finding and stopping marijuana possession and sales beyond anything uncovered in Westover's history. [continues 430 words]
