DWI Court celebrates first two graduates

A new program which will help those convicted with a driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge avoid the harsh penalties of a second or third charge while also helping them turn their lives around is celebrating its first two graduates.

DWI Court, which is similar in structure to Drug Court, is a new program in Baxter County. Those who qualify are given an alternative to standard conviction which aims to help repeat offenders get the help they need to overcome their addiction.

Baxter County District Court Judge Jodi Carney says the treatment course usually lasts 14 months.

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First time DWI offenders often time will self correct according to Judge Carney, but second or third offenders often show the signs of a serious substance abuse problem.

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While the course may be intensive, Carney says there are plenty of incentives to encourage people to choose this option over the alternative.

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After a successful inaugural session, Carney shares how proud she is of the graduates.

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The program currently has 10 participants enrolled in the next session with more on the waiting list waiting for the opportunity to learn how to change their behavior and return to being productive members of the community.

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