Note: The following item was submitted by the Tallapoosa Circuit Drug Court for publication. – KtE
The Tallapoosa Circuit Drug Court held its 35th Graduation Ceremony in the Polk County Courthouse on June 9, presided over by Chief Judge of the Tallapoosa Circuit Judge Meng Lim.
Graduate Kristy Cathcart spoke of the importance of drug court and how it literally saved her life.
In recognizing the efforts and direction of Chief Judge Lim, she said.
In concluding remarks, Judge Lim told the audience of approximately 100 citizens that drug court works and it is an economical use of taxpayer’s dollars, stating: “It costs approximately $42 per day to incarcerate a citizen of our state that is living with substance use. Treatment in drug court costs only $7.58 per day. I am proud of Kristy for her effort and commitment to stay drug-free. Kristy is the 108th graduate of drug court and employment for drug court participants is at 95%.”
Judge Lim along with Court Coordinator Vann Blankenship presented Graduate Kristy with not only a certificate of graduation but a handmade ring, made out one of the coins used to acknowledge recovery time.
Drug Court is one of three accountability courts within our district serving to reduce crime, recidivism, and impact the lives of its participants, their families, and the community.
