Moose Jaw's justice system is tackling the vicious cycle of drug addiction and crime by running a special program — despite a lack of government funding.
The Moose Jaw Drug Treatment Court (MJDTC) takes place every other Thursday and combines drug treatment with court.
Cristin Ernest, probation officer and co-ordinator for the drug court, said the program is aimed at people who commit crimes because of their addictions.
"The treatment is to help with addictions to drugs and the court is to hold the person accountable.
"We look at individuals that are committing (crimes such as) stealing or fraud to help fund their addiction . . . small time traffickers helping to pay for their addiction."
The first court session was held in April 2009. Ten individuals began the program but nobody has graduated yet. There are five participants in the program at any one time as it is an intensive program.
"We have lots of people that should be going through it (the program) but it's up to them because it's a little more intensive.
"They have to come to court every two weeks and it's a special court in the afternoons on Thursdays."
The participants also have to have regular tests and meetings with Ernest.
"They really need to want to change. If they are not ready to change, then drug court is not for them," she said.
Read more in a future Times-Herald edition.
