DUI/Drug Court graduates 10 participants
By Diana Royal Staff Writer

More than a year has passed since its inception, and now 10 people have graduated from Burke County's DUI/Drug Court.

The graduates, nine men and one woman, received certificates from State Court Judge Jerry Daniel recently, as their peers and court staff offered heartfelt applause.

"I really didn't think you'd make it," Judge Daniel told one man. To another he joked, "This one's a misprint," before patting him on the back and handing over the certificate.

The graduates underwent strenuous requirements while enrolled in the drug and alcohol free program, including counseling, community service, weekly probation and court sessions. They were also encouraged to attend AA meetings.

In combination, the 10 graduates participated in 929 hours of community service.

The program has not only received praise from Superior Court Judge David Roper, who called the program "real impressive," but Supreme Court Judge Robert Benham also commended Judge Daniel and his staff in a recent letter.

"Your court intervention program probably saves many lives, and puts many more on paths to recovery and redemption," Judge Benham wrote. "It is an unselfish and admirable display of humanitarian jurisprudence and the ultimate show of 'tough love' from the bench."

Judge Roper, who sat in on a recent session, told the program's staff that he felt as though he were watching a "60 Minutes program from the inside."

"I appreciate having this view," he continued, adding that the Augusta Judicial Circuit is looking to Burke County's DUI/Drug Court for guidance in implementing a court for the entire circuit. "I applaud you all for what you do."