Pubdate: Tue, 29 Aug 2006
Source: Province, The (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006 The Province
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/theprovince/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/476
Author: John Les
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?159 (Drug Courts)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/rehab.htm (Treatment)

OUR OWN DRUG COURT

I agree with The Province's editorial that we need to give addicts an 
incentive to get off drugs and get immediate treatment.

That's why, like Britain, Vancouver has an innovative drug treatment 
court program that recognizes many drug users are caught in a cycle 
of crime and imprisonment that doesn't address their underlying 
addiction issues.

After reviewing its effectiveness, Ottawa and the B.C. government 
extended the program in April for another three years.

The program helps non-violent offenders overcome their addictions and 
thereby, reduce criminal behaviour associated with substance abuse.

Participants follow a structured program of treatment and community 
service support to reduce their dependence on illegal drugs.

The drug court helps to ensure people get the treatment they need, 
which is the first step in breaking the cycle of addiction.

John Les,

B.C. Solicitor General
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman