DRUG USERS DIVERTED FROM JAIL

COURTS - A new project aimed at reducing the number of drug-addicted
people in Calgary who support their habits through non-violent crime
was unveiled at a town hall meeting at provincial court Thursday.

The drug treatment court pilot project, a two-year program funded by
the city, will assist men who are dependent on drugs to shed their
addictions and return to a drug-free life, in lieu of sending them to jail.

Lori Plater, who represents the federal prosecutors office on the
project committee, said offenders charged with drug trafficking and
possession for the purpose of trafficking who face a sentence of less
than two years in jail, pleaded guilty and are willing to
participate, are considered on a strict criteria.

If accepted, they go from custody to one of five beds available at
the Salvation Army Centre of Hope for the first six months of treatment.

They will then transfer to other community outreach partners for the
final 12 to 18 months for relapse prevention and job training.