Second Circuit Drug Court Graduation on Sept. 1, 2022

For Immediate Release: Aug. 29, 2022

2nd Circuit Drug Court Graduation on Sept. 1, 2022

The 2nd Circuit Drug Court is pleased to announce an upcoming graduation ceremony.  The ceremony will commence on Thursday September 1, 2022 at 1:30PM, at the Minnehaha County Courthouse.  We are honored to have Angela Kennecke of Emily’s Hope as our guest speaker.  Problem-Solving Courts (P-SC), such as the 2nd Circuit Drug Court, are specially designed court dockets aimed at reducing criminal recidivism and addressing issues surrounding substance abuse, while allowing offenders to stay within the community. Problem-Solving Courts in SD address the rising number of drug and alcohol related offenses within our communities. Drug courts work by recognizing that unless substance abuse ends, fines and jail time are unlikely to prevent future criminal activity.  

Participants in the Problem-Solving Courts are subject to Judicial supervision through weekly court hearings, frequent and random drug testing, and attendance at designated treatment services. Participants are guided by a team of professionals, including a judge, states attorney, defense attorney, clinicians, probation officers, law enforcement and a program coordinator. The Team monitors client progress and supports the clients as they find healthy peer groups, obtain employment, pay outstanding fines and fees, give back to the community by volunteering, and most importantly regain relationships with their families, children and the community all by striving for a life of recovery.

Please join the Drug Court team in celebrating with the graduates.  The ceremony is open to the public and media.  A reception will follow at the Minnehaha County Courthouse.