54A District Court celebrates Sobriety Court Graduation-- Three graduates are honored

By Roberta M. Gubbins Legal News Honorable Louise Alderson, Sobriety Court Judge for 54A District Court, opening the Sobriety Court graduation ceremony held in the Judge Filice's courtroom on the sixth floor of the Lansing City Hall, explained the "All Rise" philosophy of the National Association for Drug Court Professionals. "ALL RISE," she said, "describes how instead of imprisoning an addict, Drug Courts insert hope and support into the very lives of people who the traditional justice system says are hopeless." 54A District Court in Lansing provided the hope and support to three Sobriety Court participants that culminated in their graduation from the program on Thursday, May 13th. Leslie Snyder, sobriety court probation officer, presented the graduates. Each came to the podium, supported by their family, friends, and counselors. Many commented on how the program changed their lives. "When that nice lady put those pink handcuffs on me," said Cheryl, nodding in the direction of the officer who arrested her for drunk driving, "I thought my life was over. She said I would be okay. She was right. This has been a life changing event." "I didn't get pink handcuffs," said Ramone. "Sobriety court has brought my family back together." "Every graduation we offer a special recognition award," said Robin Osterhaven, Chief Probation Officer, "to someone who has been a real asset to our Sobriety Court Program." The award was presented to Leslie Snyder, Probation Officer. "Leslie has been with us since the first trainings for Sobriety Court in 2004. She has supported everyone and held us accountable. She is planning to retire in June and we will sorely miss her. Her contributions to our team have been invaluable." 54A's Sobriety Court program utilizes court and community resources to support individuals in developing and maintaining a substance free, sober lifestyle. Funding comes from grants and donations. "We have received grants from the Michigan Drug Court Grant Program and the Office of Highway Safety and Planning," in addition to several others," said Judge Alderson. The additional funding has aided in the expansion of the program. "We recently established the Sobriety Court Foundation, which is a 501(C)(3) and fund raising arm to get funds to support Sobriety Courts in Ingham County. There is also a sobriety court program in 55th District Court in Mason. The program is available to non-violent offenders who have been convicted of repeat misdemeanor drinking and driving offenses. The participants must live in the greater Lansing area. The program does not discriminate based on race, gender, sex or national origin, as long as they meet the original eligibility requirements. Non-eligibility criteria will include a history of violent offenses, drug delivery and sale and a significant mental health diagnosis. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates participate in the commencement ceremony. Thirty-one graduates have been honored by 54A Sobriety Court since the program began in 2005. Published: Thu, May 20, 2010

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