The 5th Judicial District Problem-Solving Court serving Hamilton and Merrick Counties held its graduation ceremony and celebration on November 5, 2018, and the York County 5th Judicial District Problem-Solving Court held its graduation on November 13, 2018.

For Drug Court graduates, the ceremony marks the completion of an intensive program of comprehensive drug treatment, close supervision, and full accountability. Drug Court is a minimum 18-month program where participants learn the skills to live a successful life free from drugs and alcohol.

Presiding Problem-Solving Court Judge Rachel Daugherty hosted the ceremony delivered the keynote address for the Merrick/Hamilton graduation and Problem-Solving Court Judge James Stecker hosted in York.

According to Nebraska Supreme Court Committee on Problem-Solving Courts Chair, Judge Jim Doyle of Lexington, “Nebraska’s Drug and Problem-Solving Courts have saved thousands of tax dollars, and the individuals served in the courts who have followed the programs have changed their lives and the lives of their loved ones for the better.” Doyle continued, “The previous philosophy of incarceration for all offenders has been replaced by community-based treatment programs that cause people to change the way they think and that requires people to be accountable for their actions without imprisonment.”

The 5th Judicial District Problem-Solving Court, like other Nebraska Problem-Solving Courts, operates under a team approach where a judge, prosecutor, defense counsel, community supervision officer, law enforcement, and treatment provider work together to design an individualized program. Compliance with treatment and court orders is verified by frequent alcohol and drug testing, close community supervision, and interaction with a judge during non-adversarial court review hearings. Problem-Solving Courts enhance close monitoring of participants using home and field visits.

5th Judicial District Problem-Solving Court Coordinator is Abbie Dishong

Nebraska Supreme Court Statewide Problem-Solving Court Coordinator is Adam Jorgensen

Photos: Judge James Stecker with York graduate and Judge Rachel Daugherty (second from left) with Merrick/Hamilton graduates.