NCJ Number
200480
Journal
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment Review Volume: 12 Issue: 1 Dated: 2003 Pages: 8-9
Date Published
2003
Length
2 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the Albuquerque Juvenile DWI/Drug Court in New Mexico.
Abstract
The court was established in 1998 after recognizing that traditional methods of substance abuse treatment were not effective. The court is an intensive supervision program, accepting juveniles between ages 13 and 18 that have demonstrated their drug dependency by involvement in the juvenile justice system. Sometimes the offenses are non-drug related but symptomatic of their substance use. The program consists of four phases. The first phase lasts a minimum of 10 weeks. The second and third phases last 7 weeks and aftercare lasts 1 to 3 months. A minimum number of points must be earned during each phase before a participant is allowed to move into the next phase. The program uses Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) to assist group participants in establishing an internalized locus of control, developing a sense of accountability, and setting long-term goals in the interest of mitigating substance abuse problems. The use of MRT in groups has enhanced all of the treatment strategies. One of the highlights for drug court participants is the completion of a wilderness and learning-based adventure program. Data from a process evaluation indicate that the program has the lowest urine analysis “positive” test rate for New Mexico juvenile drug courts. The program is at a 3 percent positive test rate, meaning that 3 percent of urine tests indicated drug usage. In another study, the percentage of control group participants that had new court referrals following exit was over 60 percent, compared to only 35 percent of the drug court participants. The program has provided services to 92 individuals and their families. A total of 37 clients have graduated from the program. All individuals completing the program reported improved family relationships. All clients are either in school, gainfully employed, or have received a GED. Individuals that did not successfully complete the program are re-offending at lower rates compared to a similar group of probationers that were unable to participate in the drug court. 1 reference