Leonardtown, MD – Recognizing the focus and leadership for community-wide anti-drug systems, bringing together criminal justice, treatment, education and other community partners, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County held a ceremony to acknowledge the important services provided by Drug Courts by proclaiming May National Drug Court Month.
Drug Court programs are recognized as the original form of drug policy reform and combine intensive judicial supervision, mandatory substance abuse treatment and drug testing with sanctions and incentives in order to break the cycle of drug abuse and drug related crimes.
“The judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, treatment and supervision professionals, law enforcement personnel, researchers, educators and community leaders are dedicated to making a profound impact through hard work and commitment to their communities,” said Commissioner John O’Connor (3rd District).
The ceremony allowed the county to recognize the practitioners and participants who make drug courts work and the significant contributions drug courts have and continue to make in reducing drug usage and criminal behavior in the community.
It’s hoped the proclamation will further increase public awareness of the effectiveness of Drug Courts in St. Mary’s County.