Drug court’s successful record deserves praise

Treating those willing to defeat their drug addictions through programs such as drug court may not be a constitutional right in this state, but it certainly has proven its worth in Snohomish County.

The state Supreme Court decided last month that while drug courts are an option for some counties, they are not an entitlement for those convicted on drug charges. It was a reasonable decision considering that not all counties can afford the program and that the program certainly isn’t for every offender – not even every offender who qualifies and gives it a try. But a recent Herald story about its success has proven there are people in Snohomish County and across the country, who, if given a chance or two, can turn their lives around and become more productive members of our communities.

Considering the devastation drug use wreaks on individuals, families and the public, embracing such successful programs makes sense.

Of the more than 500 offenders have entered the program in Snohomish County, 150 have graduated and 130 are still involved. The other 220-plus either quit or failed to meet requirements. News that less than 10 percent of the county’s graduates go back to their former destructive way of life offers proof of the program’s value.

As Snohomish County Superior Court Judge Richard Thorpe said to Herald writer Jim Haley, “The whole purpose of getting tough on crime is to prevent crime, and this (program) does a better job of it than incarceration.”

What a concept. The best way to fight crime is to prevent it. Obviously, that’s not possible much of the time. No wonder judges who see the underside of our society on a daily basis would jump at the chance to intervene and possibly change the course of the future.

The judges who encourage these people to make the right decisions and then hold them accountable deserve praise for their commitment. Judge Thorpe, who started out with the program here five years ago, is stepping aside so other judges can participate. He and others – such as Judge Charles French, a strong advocate of the program before he died last year, and retired Judge Joseph Thibodeau, who was the first juvenile drug court judge – deserve a thank you from a community that appreciates this “tough on crime” approach.

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Saturday, Feb. 15

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Rivian, based in Irvine, Calif., has introduced its new R2 models, smaller and more affordable SUVs. (Rivian)
Editorial: Open electric vehicle market to direct sales

Legislation would allow EV makers to sell directly to customers, making lease or purchase easier.

Eco-nomics: Climate change is making insurance a risky bet

Keeping home insurance affordable amid climate change will take adaptation to threats and broader efforts.

Comment: Keeping health care fair, affordable as costs rise

Bills in the state Senate would look to control costs and keep decisions in the hands of providers.

Comment: Proposal takes a swipe at credit card swipe fees

State legislation would exempt taxes and gratuities from the fees that credit card firms charge businesses.

Forum: State church leaders call for compasion for immigrants

Scripture repeatedly instructs us to love our neighbor and show the stranger hospitality.

Forum: Support state legislation to reform policing, corrections

One bill would harmonize standards for agency leadership; another would clarify review of corrections facilities.

The Buzz: When you gotta boogie, best to shake it off, kid

A pasquidadian review of the week’s news.

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: U.S. and Canada better neighbors than housemates

President Trump may be serious about annexing Canada, but it’s a deal fraught with complexities for all.

Schwab: If you’re OK with foreign aid cuts, guess who’s next

At some point, if they haven’t already, Trump’s and Musk’s cuts will hit all but a very elite few.

Poor planning behind Snohomish PUD rate increase

It did not take long in 2025 for the Snohomish Public Utility… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.