DRUG COURT EARNS RIGHT TO SURVIVE BUDGET CUTS

We should all be concerned that proven programs that effectively treat
rather than just warehouse drug addicts and youth are on the budget
chopping block. Drug court in Durham may have resulted in only 11
successful "graduates," but there are around 50 in the Raleigh program and
many more in Charlotte.

Yes, the program costs the state court system, but what was the dollar
figure saved by the Department of Correction? Because the court costs and
prison savings come out of different pockets, the overall economic
efficiency of this program is not readily apparent. In addition, calculate
the savings in human lives: healthy babies, working and tax-paying citizens
and fewer customers for dealers.

We in Durham can be thankful that additional court time has been added to
address issues regarding our youth and that we have both Judge Elaine
O'Neil and Judge Marcia Morey willing to take on heavier loads in order to
serve this crucial component of our society. Let us all hope that the drug
court also survives.

TRACY HEWETT TENNENT

Durham