News

Adult Recovery Court opens 'new chapter of justice'

By Bill Moss, Published: December 20, 2023

Henderson County has launched an Adult Recovery Court, a judicial intervention program that county leaders believe will will reduce recidivism rates and strengthen the community by addressing substance misuse and fostering rehabilitation, a coalition of partners announced in a news release.

The initiative reflects the county’s commitment to creating a supportive and therapeutic environment for individuals struggling with addiction.

The Adult Recovery Court is designed to provide an alternative to traditional criminal justice approaches for eligible participants facing non-violent, substance use-related offenses. This innovative court model emphasizes a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach involving the judiciary, treatment professionals, law enforcement, and community partners to facilitate the recovery and reintegration of individuals into society.

The Adult Recovery Court is led by Chief District Court Judge Kimberly Gasperson-Justice. The interdisciplinary team includes representatives from the offices of District Attorney Andrew Murray, Chief Public Defender Beth Stang, Probation, the Sheriff’s Office and the treatment community.

“I am pleased and honored to have been asked to participate in Henderson County’s new Adult Recovery Court,” Gasperson-Justice said. “This court is coming to fruition because our county’s leaders are committed to helping those who suffer from drug-related addiction in a positive way.

"The local judicial community, including District Attorney Andrew Murray, Public Defender Beth Stang, and I have worked over the last six months, alongside the Sheriff’s Office, Probation and Parole and Hope Coalition, in partnership with Jodi Grabowski and other county staff to make this happen. I can’t wait to see how many people in our community we will be able to help beat addiction and keep out of the court system in the future. I am looking forward to beginning this new chapter of justice here in Henderson County.”

“The Adult Recovery Court is a program that will allow those who are ready to move past their addiction the opportunity to reset and move forward,” Henderson County Sheriff Lowell Griffin said.

Key features of the Adult Recovery Court include:

• Treatment-Centered Approach: Participants will undergo comprehensive substance use treatment programs tailored to their specific needs. The court will work closely with licensed treatment providers to ensure that participants receive evidence-based interventions.
• Judicial Oversight: The court will monitor participants' progress through regular court appearances, drug testing, and compliance with treatment plans. Judicial oversight provides accountability while encouraging participants to remain committed to their recovery journey.
• Collaboration with Community Resources: The Adult Recovery Court will collaborate with community organizations, mental health services, and vocational training programs to address the diverse needs of participants and support their successful reintegration into society.
• Holistic Support: Recognizing the complex nature of substance use issues, the program will offer holistic support, including counseling, educational resources, and assistance with housing and employment.

“The Board of Commissioners identified the creation of this court, along with an increased investment in Law Enforcement, as critical in its response to the opioid crisis in our community,’ Henderson County Manager John Mitchell said. “I firmly believe that the Adult Recovery Court will reduce recidivism rates and contribute to building a healthier and more resilient community. By addressing the root causes of substance misuse and providing individuals with the necessary tools for recovery, we aim to break the cycle of addiction and promote long-term positive change.”

The Recovery Court will begin taking referrals from client’s attorneys in January 2024. For more information about the Adult Recovery Court, contact Daniel Conway at dconway@hendersoncountync.gov or 828-845-0391.