News

Two Graduate from Adult Drug Court Program

The 14th Judicial District's Adult Drug Court honored its first two graduates at a ceremony June 30 in the parish Judicial Center.

Adult Drug Court, founded in 2007 by District Attorney John F. DeRosier and Judges Mike Canaday and David Ritchie, is a 12- to 18-month program aimed at preventing nonviolent drug offenders from becoming repeat offenders and helping them to become more productive citizens.

Prospective participants are carefully screened and are interviewed by the judges before being selected for the program.

Once selected, participants are in almost daily contact with the comprehensive program. It includes intensive therapy and counseling and touches virtually every aspect of their lives: jobs, education, family, health, church. Strict program guidelines must be adhered to, and drug testing is done randomly

When participants graduate from the program, there is continuing support and aftercare along with a one-year probation. Upon successful completion of probation, charges will be dismissed under a new Louisiana law.

For more information about Adult Drug Court, contact the District Attorney's Office.