Alternative forms of corrections and rehabilitation for drug abusers are utilized across the United States. Treatment programs, supervised probation, substance testing and counseling programs are most often offered to first time non-violent offenders. Judges, along with the existence of local program access, and funding are also factors used when determining an alternative to incarceration for a drug abuse offender.
Drug abuse offenders are often sentenced to alternative treatment programs.
Correctional Facilities
Alternative treatment programs show success with first-time drug offenders
Overcrowded prison systems and a focus on rehabilitation of substance-abuse offenders prompted the use of alternative forms of correction in drug cases. The term "treatment in lieu of conviction" pertains to alternative sentencing programs in various states. If a judge believes an offender was affected by substance abuse while committing a crime, or charged with a straight drug offense, the court can consider an alternative to incarceration. A court hearing is held to determine any contributing factors in the case, as well as the benefits of substance abuse commitment and outpatient services compared with a prison sentence.
Drug Prevention Laws
Overcrowded prisons prompted wider use of alternative treatment programs.
The Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act, first adopted in California in 2000, introduced alternative program benefits and statistics related to recidivism rates. Community-based substance-abuse treatment facilities and programs reduce the financial drain on the court system and counsel offenders away from future drug and alcohol abuse.
Justice System
The U.S. criminal justice system offers referral services and guidance in the push to treat small possession and non-violent drug-related cases. Treatment programs focus on helping substance abusers beat their addictions and provide long-term counseling to keep the offenders clean and out of the court system.
Drug Courts
Non-violent drug offenders receive medical care and counseling.
Drug court is a term often used when drug abusers appear in a court designed to address alternatives to prison terms. The judge or magistrate hears a case and assigns the offender to a local or state alternative-treatment program. Most sentences include drug testing while in a program and during a probationary period after an offender leaves treatment.
Alternative Programs
Alternative forms of treatment are similar throughout the United States. Youth and adult offenders must comply with all treatment initiatives and test clean or serve the suspended prison or jail term as directed by a judge. Treatment programs often utilize art therapy, vocational training, intensive private and group counseling sessions, coping techniques and physical exercise. The use of pet care during treatment is also a common procedure when working with addicts. Medical care is often a part of an alternative-treatment program.
Tags: Alternative forms, alternative incarceration, alternative treatment, alternative-treatment program, court system, drug abusers, drug offenders