Substance abuse is one of the most wrenching issues facing our communities and families. Here in Arizona and across the country, there are ongoing efforts to address this problem in new ways. Even while education and prevention efforts keep many Arizonans from experimenting with illegal substances, unfortunately, many already suffer from substance abuse and addiction.

In Arizona, a new approach to substance abuse from within the justice system is making a big difference in people’s lives. Drug Courts – a separate branch of our judiciary dealing specifically with crimes of addiction – provide the necessary multi-pronged approach to tackle this tough problem. These courts bring together numerous specialties: the judiciary, law enforcement, mental health science, social service, probation and treatment services. The judge serves as the leader of the Drug Court team, linking participants to substance abuse treatment and to the criminal justice system. The structure of Drug Courts allows for early and frequent intervention.

Drug Courts actively and forcefully intervene and help break the cycle of substance abuse, addiction and crime. By quickly identify substance-abusing offenders, Drug Courts place participants under close court monitoring and community supervision, coupled with effective, long-term treatment service.

By concentrating on the future conduct of offenders, drug courts make our communities safer. As of April 2007, 1,105 participants have successfully graduated from Arizona Drug and DUI Court programs. In addition, 1,095 individuals are currently participating in those programs. The benefits of drug courts include:

• A decrease in criminal recidivism.
• A significant return on a state taxpayers’ investment – estimates say that Arizona Drug Courts saved taxpayers more than $11.5 million in 2005.
• Increased retention in treatment. Data consistently shows that treatment, when completed, is effective.
• A reduction in prison overcrowding.

We are continuing to seek innovative ways to address the problems of substance abuse in our communities. The Division for Substance Abuse Policy within my Office for Children, Youth and Families, along with the Arizona Supreme Court and the Arizona Parents Commission on Drug Education and Prevention, hosted the 7th Annual Arizona Drug Court Conference last week. The conference featured a number of national drug court experts who shared information in an effort to increase the effectiveness of Drug Courts in Arizona.

To ensure a safe, healthy and prosperous future for all Arizonans, we will continue to seek innovative ways to win the fight against substance abuse in our communities. As always, if you have any questions or comments, please contact my office at 1-800-253-0883 and ask to speak to Constituent Services.