RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) — A special ceremony was held Friday for 13 people who graduated from the city’s adult drug treatment court.
The program, which focuses on people arrested for drug-related crimes, allows inmates to undergo treatment and counseling to avoid jail time.
Judges said the program does not just benefit offenders, but also helps Virginia taxpayers.
“Over and over again that the drug court tends to reduce recidivism and keep people out of court and engaged in productive lifestyle,” said Judge Tracy Thorne-Begland, who served as the event’s keynote speaker.
Judge Margaret Spencer, who also helps oversee the court with Thorne-Beglandand, pointed out that the graduates from the 18-month program are now paying taxes and child support.
