JUDGES SEEK DRUG COURT FOR HARRISON COUNTY

GULFPORT - First-time drug and alcohol offenders could have an opportunity
to rehabilitate themselves and avoid jail if Harrison County leaders approve
money for a drug court.

Circuit Judges Robert Walker, Stephen Simpson and Jerry O. Terry believe
establishing a drug court in Harrison County is part of the solution to the
substance abuse problems plaguing Mississippi. They filed an order in court
Monday to establish the program, contingent on funding.

Senior Circuit Judge Kosta Vlahos did not sign the court order. He said he
will explain his reasons in writing to the Board of Supervisors.

The three judges and District Attorney Cono Caranna will ask supervisors
next week for about $75,000 this year. Walker, who also will apply for
federal grants, said participants could begin the program in two months.

Caranna, a longtime supporter of drug courts, said states with similar
programs help people who want to be rehabilitated.

Harrison County's program will be modeled after the one created in 1999 by
Pike County Circuit Judge Keith Starrett.

Also on Monday, State Auditor Phil Bryant released the results of a study
showing Mississippi could save $5.4 million a year if 500 people
successfully completed a drug court program instead of going to prison.

Bills filed with the Legislature this session would create statewide
standards for drug courts and provide $475,000 to hire four state employees
to administer the program.

Walker and Simpson would preside over Harrison County cases. Participation
in the three-year program would be voluntary, and people who successfully
complete it would not have a felony conviction. Caranna's office and the
arresting agency must approve those who participate.

The program is open to drug users, not those who sell, transfer, manufacture
or distribute drugs. Other offenses, such as DUI and writing bad checks,
also are included.

"This is not a soft-on-crime approach," Walker said. "It's really a lot
harder on a person than probation."