Outcomes Among Drug Court Participants: Does Drug of Choice Matter?

• NCJ Number: 233441
• Journal: International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology Volume: 55 Issue: 1 Dated: February 2011 Pages: 155-174
• Author(s): Deborah Koetzle Shaffer; Jennifer L. Hartman; Shelley Johnson Listwan; Terra Howell; Edward J. Latessa
• Date Published: February 2011
• Length: 20 pages
• Sponsoring Agency: Ohio Supreme Court
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study examined the relationship between drug of choice and program outcome among drug court participants.

Abstract

The link between drug and alcohol abuse and criminal behavior is clearly illustrated in the literature. The options of how to respond to these offenders, however, has widely fluctuated over time. Currently, many States have reconsidered their "get tough" approach to one that is more rehabilitative in nature. One particular community-based intervention that has gained in popularity is the drug court model. The literature on drug courts is generally supportive; however, there is a need to examine effectiveness by target population. The purpose of this study is to explore recidivism rates of drug court clients by drug of choice. Using a 2-year follow-up period, this study finds that drug of choice does not significantly influence either successful graduation or arrest. Policy implications are discussed. (Published Abstract) Tables, notes, and references