Drug Courts in the UNITE service region reached a milestone in September 2017 of more than $1 million collected in child support since inception, according to a report presented to the UNITE Board of Directors in October. Overall, more than $2.48 million was collected, which includes fines, restitutions and court costs.

The number of Drug Court programs increased in the Operation UNITE service area from five in 2003 to now serving every county in the region. Participants obtain treatment and are more likely to return to productive lives, stay gainfully employed, pay child support and meet other obligations.

“We are proud to support Drug Court participants and their families,” said Nancy Hale, president & CEO of Operation UNITE. “Many participants receive UNITE treatment vouchers and benefit from after-care, while families are supported through our community coalitions. Together, we are helping people return to being productive members of their families, the workforce and the community.”

Other highlights from the September report on UNITE’s efforts to combat substance abuse in its 32-county service area include:

Investigations
56 tip line calls were received with 22,260 calls received since inception. People can report suspected drug activity toll-free by calling 1-866-424-4382.

Drug Courts

  • During September, there were 415 active participants in drug courts within the UNITE service area. Of those, 330 were employed and 108 were pursuing education.
  • The courts collected $8,794 in fines, restitution and court costs, along with $5,704 in child support in September. Since inception those totals are $1.482 million and $1 million, respectively.
  • There were 6,781 hours of community service completed in September.

Treatment
11 people entered treatment in September using a UNITE Treatment Voucher. Since inception, 4,274 have entered treatment.

Education/UNITE Coalitions
UNITE and its coalitions held a total of 205 activities, including:

  • In Wayne County, 19 “Give Me a Reason” drug-testing kits were distributed with a total of 549 kits being handed out in the last 18 months.
  • The Beech Creek Round-up in Clay County draws 50 to 75 youth each Wednesday afternoon.
  • Former UK basketball player Jarrod Polson conducted a Shoot Hoops Not Drugs basketball camp for the Appalachian ChalleNGe Academy in Harlan County. There were 109 cadets, 15 academy staff members and five UNITE staffers.