Letter: We need local drug court

To the Editor:

I read Judge Bibus’s excellent commentary outlining the advantages of having a drug court in Red Wing (R-E, Jan. 19). As a professional, working with some of these young individuals who commit fifth-degree offences, I think drug court would be the best thing that’s ever happened to them.

So many of these young people have such limited decision-making skills that they have a difficult, if not impossible time, becoming healthy, contributing, law-abiding citizens. With the court leading. these young individuals can learn accountability within a supportive, yet directive network.

I applaud the Judicial Council for making expansion of the drug court model a major priority. I applaud Judge Bibus for supporting this model. I support every effort Red Wing makes to initiate a drug court.

It really will make a difference.

Dorothy Halla-Poe

Bay City

Dorothy Halla-Poe helps lead a class for first-time offenders placed on probation.

Tags: opinion, letter, dorothy, drug, court