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When one man from Kinder, Louisiana, was arrested on drug-related charges, the judge offered him the opportunity to go to treatment or jail. Initially, he chose treatment, but ultimately, he ended up leaving the program without permission. This choice meant being arrested and charged with a state jail felony for unauthorized absence from a community correction facility.
Unfortunately, drug courts that offer treatment as a remedy for drug-related crimes are only effective when the person follows through with the care they need and meets the requirements of the court.
Given the choice, would you rather get help for drug addiction or go to jail?
Treatment vs. Felony Charges
Treatment refers to a variety of programs that aim to help individuals overcome their addiction, mental health issues, or other problems that may have led to their criminal behavior. These programs can include therapy, counseling, medication, and support groups. The goal of treatment is to address the root cause of the problem and prevent future criminal behavior.
Felony charges, on the other hand, can result in long-term consequences, such as prison time, heavy fines, and a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. While felony charges can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, they may not address the underlying issues that led to the behavior in the first place.
Pros and Cons of Treatment
One of the main advantages of treatment is that it can help you address the root cause of your criminal behavior. For example, if you have an addiction problem, treatment can help you overcome your addiction and reduce your risk of relapse. Treatment can also be more cost-effective than going through the criminal justice system, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
However, treatment is not a guarantee of success. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication on your part, and there is always a risk of relapse. Additionally, treatment may not be available in all cases, especially if you have committed a serious crime.
Pros and Cons of Felony Charges
Felony charges can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior and may help protect society from dangerous individuals. Additionally, going through the criminal justice system can provide closure to victims and their families. Finally, felony charges may be the only option in cases where the crime is serious or violent.
However, there are also significant downsides to felony charges. They can result in long-term consequences that can make it difficult to find employment, housing, or education opportunities. Additionally, prison time can be a traumatic experience that can lead to mental health issues and can make it more difficult to reintegrate into society.
What Is Drug Court?
Drug court offers nonviolent offenders who are charged with drug- or addiction-related crimes the opportunity to choose drug rehab over jail time. That is, crimes that were committed with the goal of getting more drugs or money to pay for drugs, or charges for buying an illegal substance, may be addressed through effective treatment that helps the person to overcome the addiction that underlies those choices. The hope is that in treatment they will not only safely stop using all substances of abuse and remain sober for the long-term, but they will also learn positive coping mechanisms that will help them to avoid relapse. This can often mean getting employment assistance and job skills training, getting help finding a sober and safe home, and managing all responsibilities to the court.
In some cases, it can even mean a removal of all charges from the person’s record, assistance for children and family members impacted by the addiction, and long-term follow-up care to ensure that everyone is thriving in recovery.
Why Would Someone Choose Not to Go to Treatment?
Addiction is an insidious disease. It alters the function of the brain over time so the person has less and less ability to manage compulsive use of the substance of choice. This means that even those who genuinely want to stop drinking or using drugs will experience cravings that can be overwhelming and cause them to justify “just one drink” or a dose of the drug of addiction.
For some who are arrested as they pursue their drug of choice, their single-minded goal is to get back out on the street so they can get high or drunk and manage the withdrawal symptoms they may be feeling after being in jail without their drug of choice. Though treatment may be the better way to manage the consequences they are facing due to drug use in the long-term and help them to avoid worsening the situation, addiction often eliminates everything outside of the immediate situation and what must be done next to get high. Choosing to not get the drug of choice can seem like no choice at all to someone who is actively in addiction, and for that reason, many people would rather deal with jail time at a later date than get treatment for addiction that requires detox.
It should also be noted that drug court is not available to some who may like to utilize the program if they have committed a violent offense in the course of their crime.
Does Drug Court Work?
Drug court can be extremely effective in helping the people who take advantage of the program to the fullest. For those who fully engage with treatment, follow up with their case manager and the judge as ordered, and fulfill all the requirements of the program, including staying sober, drug court can be a life-changer.
Additionally, because treatment and management of drug court is far less expensive than jailing someone and/or dealing with repeat offenses due to untreated addiction over the course of the person’s lifetime, drug courts serve everyone in the community.
Families also have the opportunity to heal and move forward together when a loved one agrees to undergo treatment rather than go to jail. The individual is supported in building a solid and stable life in recovery that will allow them to find peace and balance without drugs and alcohol.
Would Someone You Love Benefit from Addiction Treatment?
If someone you care about is struggling with an active addiction, help them to avoid getting pulled into the system, or minimize their continued issues with law enforcement and court, by helping them to connect with treatment today.
Which Option Should You Choose?
Choosing between treatment and felony charges is a difficult decision that should be made on a case-by-case basis. If you have committed a non-violent crime and have underlying issues that may have contributed to your behavior, treatment may be a good option. However, if you have committed a serious or violent crime, or if treatment is not available, felony charges may be the only option.
Ultimately, the decision should be based on what is best for you and society as a whole. If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
Types of Treatment Programs
There are different types of treatment programs available, depending on the individual's needs and circumstances. Some of the most common types of treatment programs include:
Inpatient Treatment
Inpatient treatment programs are residential programs where individuals stay for a period of time to receive intensive treatment. These programs provide 24-hour care and support, including counseling, therapy, and medication management.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to receive treatment while continuing to live at home. These programs typically involve regular meetings with a therapist or counselor, as well as group therapy sessions.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of medication to help individuals overcome addiction. This type of treatment is often used in combination with counseling and therapy.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment is designed for individuals who have both a substance abuse disorder and a mental health disorder. This type of program provides integrated treatment for both disorders, which can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of relapse.
It is important to work with a qualified healthcare professional to determine which type of program is best suited to your needs. They can help you assess your options and create a plan that will give you the best chance for success.
Am I Eligible for Treatment Instead of Felony Charges?
Determining eligibility for treatment instead of felony charges can be a complex process. It typically depends on the nature and severity of the crime, as well as the individual's criminal history and any underlying issues that may have contributed to their behavior.
In general, individuals who have committed non-violent crimes and are struggling with addiction or mental health issues may be eligible for treatment instead of felony charges. However, eligibility also depends on factors such as:
- The individual's willingness to participate in treatment
- The availability of treatment programs in the area
- The recommendations of law enforcement officials and prosecutors
If you are facing criminal charges and believe that you may be eligible for treatment instead of felony charges, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. They can help you understand your options and navigate the legal system to get the best possible outcome.
The Consequences of Not Completing a Treatment Program
While treatment programs can be highly effective, they require a significant commitment from the individual. Unfortunately, not everyone is able to complete their treatment program successfully. There are several potential consequences of not completing a treatment program, including:
Increased Risk of Relapse
One of the biggest risks of not completing a treatment program is an increased risk of relapse. Without the tools and strategies learned in treatment, individuals may struggle to manage their addiction or mental health issues on their own.
Legal Consequences
In some cases, failing to complete a court-ordered treatment program can result in legal consequences. For example, if an individual was given the option to choose between treatment and felony charges but fails to complete their treatment program successfully, they may face felony charges after all.
Social Isolation
Addiction and mental health issues can take a toll on relationships with family and friends. If an individual is unable to complete their treatment program successfully, they may continue to struggle with these issues and experience social isolation as a result.
Financial Burden
Treatment programs can be expensive, and many insurance plans do not cover the full cost. If an individual is unable to complete their treatment program successfully, they may have wasted significant financial resources without achieving lasting results.
It is important for individuals who are considering entering into a treatment program to carefully consider whether they are ready and willing to commit fully to the process. While there are risks associated with not completing a treatment program successfully, those who are committed and willing to put in the work have a much higher chance of achieving long-term success.
Life After Treatment or Prison
Completing a treatment program or serving time in prison can be a life-changing experience. However, it is important to remember that the journey does not end there. The transition back into society can be challenging, and it is important to prepare for this new chapter in your life.
Develop a Support System
One of the most important things you can do to prepare for life after treatment or prison is to develop a strong support system. This may include friends, family members, counselors, therapists, or support groups. Having people who understand what you have been through and are willing to support you through the transition can make all the difference.
Find Employment
Finding employment after completing a treatment program or serving time in prison can be difficult, but it is an important step towards building a new life. Consider reaching out to organizations that specialize in helping individuals with criminal records find employment, and don't be afraid to start small. Even part-time work can help you build skills and gain experience.
Address Legal Issues
If you have legal issues related to your past behavior, it is important to address them as soon as possible. This may involve working with an attorney or seeking out other legal resources in your community. By addressing these issues head-on, you can reduce stress and uncertainty as you navigate life after treatment or prison.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
Transitioning back into society can be stressful and overwhelming at times. It's important to take care of your mental health by practicing self-care techniques such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or therapy. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling - there are many resources available.
Set Goals
Setting goals for yourself can help you stay focused and motivated as you move forward with your life. These goals may include personal or professional milestones such as finding stable housing, getting a job promotion, or pursuing further education. By setting goals and working towards them, you can build a sense of purpose and accomplishment.
Stay Positive
Finally, it's important to stay positive and focused on the future. It's natural to feel uncertain or anxious about what lies ahead, but remember that you have already overcome significant challenges. By staying positive and believing in yourself, you can create a bright future for yourself after completing a treatment program or serving time in prison.
Conclusion
If you are facing criminal charges, it is important to remember that you have options. Choosing between treatment and felony charges can be a difficult decision, but it is important to make an informed choice that is best for you and society as a whole.
If you have committed a non-violent crime and have underlying issues that may have contributed to your behavior, treatment may be a good option. However, if you have committed a serious or violent crime, or if treatment is not available, felony charges may be the only option.
Regardless of which option you choose, it is important to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your options and navigate the legal system to get the best possible outcome.
