If I were in a sinking boat, I’d want Troy Smith along.
That’s because Smith, director of the 31st Judicial District’s Drug Court program, kept his cool at Tuesday night’s news the federal government had immediately eliminated a huge chunk of the program’s funding.
Not only did Smith manage to keep his equilibrium; he also zeroed in on stop-gap funding measures to keep the program’s wheels turning.
The goal of the drug court program is to rehabilitate those convicted of drug-related crimes rather than put them behind bars.
Smith and his staff of four work with what he calls “the fringe of society” to bring them back into the mainstream.
The recovery program is intense, requiring thrice weekly three-hour group sessions as well as individual sessions with professionals who deal with substance abuse. Most participants are in the program for at least one year. Sometimes up to five years.
“Graduation Day” is a big day for the more than 200 who have successfully completed the program over the past 13 years.
Most times family members, friends, and the professionals who have worked with them over the years attend the ceremonies overseen by District Judge Daniel Creitz. Former Allen County Sheriff Tom Williams, who worked with Creitz to launch the program, still comes back when possible to attend the emotional proceedings.
In a 2023 ceremony, graduate Amanda Sharp recalled her terror of entering the program.
“I had to go in front of everyone and own up to my mistakes over and over again,” she was quoted in an article written by Register reporter Richard Luken.
“During the program I gained strength. I got my faith back and the courage to keep moving forward. And I met some amazing people along the way.
“I fought my way back from things meant to destroy me,” Sharp said.
Many participants describe the program as a life raft.
“Drug court saved my life by not giving up on me,” said fellow graduate Tabitha Valentine.
But it seems not all are impressed.
According to the form letter Smith received in his inbox Tuesday night, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) had determined the drug court no longer meets the agency’s goals of providing “interventions that address the rising rates of mental illness and substance abuse.” As such, the agency informed Smith it had eliminated the drug court’s funding. Immediately.
