JUDGE: DRUG COURT IS AN EARLY SUCCESS

PASCAGOULA - Circuit Judge Kathy Jackson, a key advocate of the new Jackson
County Drug Court, said Monday the rehabilitation program got off to a good
start in February and is expected to grow.

"We had 11 in Drug Court today, and they are getting acclimated to the
rules," she said. "We have had a few bumps as they get the drugs out of
their systems."

After operating a successful George-Greene Drug Court for more than a year,
Jackson asked the Jackson County Board of Supervisors to support one here.
Supervisors allocated $50,000. The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce
worked with the judge and her team to raise more than $40,000, plus pledges
for more. The program is to cost about $150,000.

Joanne Byrd, who serves as coordinator in the George-Greene court, will
serve in the same capacity here, as will Probation Officer John Hilbun.

Jackson will have the same tough rules imposed in the first program. "One
has tested positive and is back serving jail time," she said. "They have
gotten library cards, so far six have jobs, and we are working out the kinks."

She enrolled 32 inmates, who otherwise would have served prison time, in
the George-Greene program in 15 months. "We'll have a lot more than that in
Jackson County," she said. "We're trying to be real careful. We don't want
to waste time."

The inmates are required to pass drug tests every week and hold a job.

"We'll be meeting every Monday at 8:30 for them to report on their
progress," she said.