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Why Drug Offenders Need Support More Than Jail
April 22, 2019
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When it comes to drug offenders, some in our country believe that the best place for them is a jail cell. While jail might seem like the only place to keep them away from drugs, serving time in jail does nothing to actually help the offender conquer their addiction, and may end up reinforcing unhealthy and dangerous life choices. In fact there are several reasons why non-violent drug offenders need more community support instead of simply a long stretch of time in a jail cell.
Lack of Personal Support Systems
One of the biggest obstacles facing a drug addict on their road to recovery is that they lack any kind of personal support system to help them in their pursuit of sobriety. Many have experienced broken family relationships as a result of their addictions and actions, while others lack safe housing or access to drug rehabilitation services. Others may be vulnerable to dangerous situations such as human trafficking, gang activity, or prostitution. Without basic support systems in place, drug offenders are far more likely to continue spiraling downward due to their addiction.
Jail Fails As A Deterrent
While a first-time drug offender might be scarred for life by a stint in jail, repeat non-violent drug offenders are not as likely to consider a jail sentence a deterrent from future drug use. For those who are homeless or face a dangerous situation on the streets, jail might be a welcome break. In addition, drug offenders may face painful effects from drug withdrawal, and jails lack the resources to adequately help in these cases.
Rehabilitation Works
Rehabilitation is a far more impactful, cost-effective, and beneficial option for non-violent drug offenders than simply being punished with a jail sentence. When an addict is equipped with the tools and encouragement needed to break their addictions, they can go on to lead productive lives and are far less likely to fall back into bad habits and addiction. An addict sent only to jail as punishment for their drug addiction does not receive the counseling, support, safe housing, or job training needed for successful rehabilitation, and are more likely to return to jail multiple times.
The STAR Drug Court Program works to help those caught in the vicious cycle of addiction break free and experience life-changing transformation through a combination of trauma therapy, transitional housing, and job training. If you would like to contribute to the STAR Program and learn how your donation can impact lives, visit our Donate page.
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