NCJ Number
131199
Date Published
Unknown
Length
25 pages
Annotation
This report describes a program created by the Metropolitan Dade County (Florida) government and Eleventh Circuit Court to combat the severe substance abuse problem by addressing the needs of the population that cannot afford drug abuse treatment. In many cases, the targeted population includes persons who have come in contact with the criminal justice system.
Abstract
Some of the innovations undertaken in this program include judicial involvement in the project, the use of acupuncture as an initial form of drug treatment, and a new diversion and treatment program that considers first-time drug possession offenders to be addicts rather than criminals. The program has also implemented a comprehensive in-jail program including mandatory extended aftercare and has established a drug division in the court system. Steps have been taken to ensure the early intervention and assessment of over 5,000 youth in the juvenile justice system. Professionals from the Miami-Dade Community College and county treatment centers are also involved in the project. In addition, detailed action plans have been developed in eight targeted areas: in-jail substance abuse treatment, diversion and treatment programs, central intake, alternative treatment services, juvenile substance abuse services, treatment for pregnant women and women with children, involuntary commitments, and public information and education.