What is East Central Judicial District Drug Court?
Drug Court is a court supervised, treatment oriented program that targets non-violent participants whose major problems stem from substance abuse. The Drug Court Program is a voluntary program, which includes regular court appearances before the Drug Court Judge. Treatment includes drug testing, individual and group counseling, and regular attendance at 12-Step meetings. The probation officer and the treatment team may also assist with obtaining education and skills assessments and will provide referrals for vocational training, education, and/or job placement services.
The program length, determined by the participant’s progress, will be no less than one year. Successful completion and “graduation” from the Drug Court Program may result in having probation terminated early.
A Team Approach
The East Central Judicial District Drug Court Team consists of judges from the East Central District Court, the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Probation Officer, the Treatment Providers, and the Defense Attorney.
Program Design
As participants progress through the three phases the requirements become less restrictive. Each phase has specific goals a participant must achieve prior to advancing to the next phase. Once a participant has successfully completed all three phases, he/she will graduate. Incentives and sanctions may be given based on the progress of the participant.
Phase I: Minimum of four months
Phase II: Minimum of four months
Phase III: Minimum of four months
Who qualifies for East Central Judicial District Drug Court?
Candidates must have multiple prior Misdemeanor or Felony drug offenses, or in DUI cases must have three or more DUIs. The current offense must be a class A Misdemeanor or greater. Candidates may qualify if this is their first Felony offense and there is a supporting history of substance abuse. They cannot be violent offenders and must demonstrate a willingness to accept responsibility for their addiction and criminal conduct. They must receive an addiction evaluation and have a chemical addiction diagnosis. Candidates who have previously been in any drug court program are not eligible. Candidates are also not eligible if the current offense or criminal history includes drug delivery, intent to deliver, or manufacturing.
For More Information Contact:
North Dakota Parole/Probation Division
Jennifer College or Dave Birrenkott
115 N University Drive
Fargo, ND 58102
Phone (701) 239-7272
