ANTI-DRUG BOOT CAMP

Hawai'i's drug problem has increased significantly throughout the
last decade. The Maui Drug Court's current programs are not enough to
reduce the drug problems we have on the island.

Although studies have concluded boot camps have not shown significant
impacts on participants and they have substantial costs to society, I
believe the Maui Drug Court should include a boot camp that focuses
less on military and physical training, and includes a greater focus
on education, counseling and employment. Why? Because other states
with similar programs found significant improvements in lowering
recidivism rates and costs, and in participants' behavior and attitudes.

Wisconsin's Challenge Incarceration Program, Nevada's High Step Boot
Camp and O'ahu's Adult Drug Court Program have successfully helped to
lower recidivism rates. Boot camps have also helped once drug
offenders become more productive members of society--at a lower cost
than keeping them in prison.

Maui should vote to add boot camp in drug courts!

Grace Agapay

Pukalani