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'Drug Court' gives new life to drug addicts in Hennepin County

Graduation day at Hennepin County Drug Court is just that, a commencement from one life, to another.

MINNEAPOLIS - Graduation day at Hennepin County Drug Court is just that, a commencement from one life, to another.

"It saved my life," one participant said.

The program, now in it's 10th year, gives recovering drug addicts the choice between treatment and incarceration.

Friday afternoon 25 participants officially graduated from the program during a celebration with family and friends.

"I'm 16 months sober today and I'm just so grateful," one participant told the crowd.

The program officially launched in 2007 in Hennepin County, but has roots that go back to 1996, Judge Marta Chou says.

She says 32 other counties in Minnesota have since started their own Drug Court programs.

"We are celebrating over two years of sobriety here. We're talking about long stretches," Chou says.

"That's why everyone is celebrating and cheering for everyone today."

Since 2007, Chou says nearly 400 people have graduated from Drug Court. About 120 people are currently enrolled in the program in Hennepin County.

She says the program isn't for everyone. In some cases it becomes a full-time job.

"People have to be ready for this. It's an intensive program where we work through every aspect of their life," Chou explains.

The average length of time it takes to graduate is about 18 and a half months, Chou says.

One graduate in this latest group spent nearly four years in the program.

Not only is the program a major commitment for the recovering addicts, but Chou says it also takes dozens of agencies to make the program work.

The program not only features judges, attorneys and parole officers, but also numerous non-profit groups that help participants find places to live, work and find support.

"Drugs aren't going anywhere," Chou says. "We need to meet the epidemic head on and deal with these issues."

The program Chou says, may not be the fastest or easiest way to deal with drug offenders, but she argues it's the best way.

"This is our community and they need our support," Chou says. "If they are willing to do the work and are willing to change their lives, we should be out there, cheering them on and helping them stay accountable."

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