Child support collections from Drug Courts in Operation UNITE’s service region rose by more than 75 percent in February, while the number of community service hours provided by participants increased by more than 40 percent during the same period.

“Drug courts continue to prove their worth to the families and communities in our service area,” UNITE President/CEO Nancy Hale said. “With UNITE’s assistance, the number of Drug Court Programs increased from five in 2003 to now serving every county in the region.”

February infographic-web

The monthly report details Operation UNITE’s efforts to combat substance abuse in its 32-county service area. Highlights from February include:

Investigations
36 tip line calls were received with 21,873 calls received since inception. People can report suspected drug activity toll-free by calling 1-866-424-4382.

Drug Courts

  • There were 489 active participants in drug courts within the UNITE service area. Of those, 328 were employed and 105 were pursuing education.
  • The courts collected $15,183 in fines, restitution and court costs, along with $10,814 in child support in February. Since inception those totals are $1.41 million and $938,299, respectively.
  • There were 7,662 hours of community service completed in February.

Treatment

  • 14 people entered treatment in February using a UNITE Treatment Voucher.
  • Since inception, 4,179 people have entered treatment.

Education and UNITE Coalitions
UNITE and its coalitions held a total of 142 activities in February, including:

  • Coalition members in Laurel County created a local treatment resource guide.
  • There were 33 “Give Me A Reason” drug testing kits distributed in Wayne County because of increased publicity.
  • Almost 100 people participated in Lighthouse Lifeline support groups at its training center in Pineville and the Bell County Detention Center.
  • The Letcher County Coalition handed out “Give Me A Reason” drug testing kits and substance abuse information at the Heart and Lung Fair, which was attended by 200 people.
  • Perry ASAP received a grant to hold Narcan training in Perry County.