AN IDEAL 'SHINING EXAMPLE'

Arrested More Than A Year Ago, Melissa Doss Has Amazed Herself And Others
By Completing A Drug Rehabilitation Program In Costa Mesa

Melissa Doss had a big smile on her face.

Dressed in a black suit, long blond hair cascading down her shoulders, Doss
accepted flowers and congratulatory hugs from friends and family.

She was the first graduate to successfully complete her rehabilitation
program from the Drug Court system at the Harbor Justice Center.

The program that began in Harbor Court last July offers an alternative to
jail time for selected drug offenders. Participants go through a rigorous
physical, psychological and social rehabilitation program that, officials
say, aims to return them to the community as good and able citizens.

Doss, a 25-year-old psychology major at Orange Coast College, has reached
that goal after one year. She was recognized at a special presentation in
courtroom H14, where Judge Geoffrey Glass awarded her a certificate of
merit and dismissed all charges against her.

The courtroom looked unusually festive Monday afternoon with colorful
balloons tied on the chair normally occupied by grim witnesses. Replacing
jurors in the jury box were dignitaries, court officials and counselors --
all of whom clapped and cheered for Doss.

The judge traded his black robe for a blazer, slung a guitar on his
shoulder and accompanied therapist Andrew Perry in a special song for the
graduate.

Doss, who had been addicted to cocaine and heroin for five years when she
was arrested in January 2000, said she took it one day at a time.

"I never thought this day would come," she said. "It all seemed impossible
at first. I needed this structure to help me get my act together."

Doss is a "shining example" to other recovering addicts, said Patricia
Bintliff, program director at Positive Directions Recovery Homes in Costa
Mesa, where Doss lived since March 2000.

"She was tearful, remorseful and determined to turn a new leaf," she said.
"It's a tremendous challenge living with 11 other women, having to do
chores, face curfews and even restrictions to use the phone."

The program achieved something Frank Doss could not do for his daughter.

"They struck a chord I didn't," he said. "I thought I had that power as her
father. But I was wrong."

Right after her graduation speech, Ross gave a yellow rose to Newport Beach
Police Officer Bob Rivers, who arrested her more than a year ago.

"If it were not for him, I would never be here today," said Doss, hugging
Rivers.

Rivers said he was overwhelmed by the ceremony and by Doss' success.

"I never get to see what happens to the people I arrest," he said. "This is
great. This feels good."