Three set to Graduate from Mental Health Court on Oct. 5, 2022

For Immediate Release: Oct. 4, 2022

Three set to Graduate from Mental Health Court on Oct. 5, 2022

The Second Judicial Circuit - Mental Health Court is pleased to announce the graduation of three clients on October 5th, 2022.   

These graduates, who would have otherwise been facing lengthy (and costly) prison sentences, will graduate today after demonstrating sobriety (939 consecutive days in one case) along with hard work and dedication.  They have successfully completed 5 phases of programming, including chemical dependency and mental health treatment.  They have jobs and are working to build healthy relationships and find ways to serve others in the community.  

Keynote speaker at the graduation ceremony will be retired South Dakota Supreme Court Justice, Lori Wilbur.  As a Circuit Court Judge in Pierre, SD, Justice Wilbur was instrumental in starting Problem-Solving Courts such as Drug Court.  That model was used to start the Mental Health Court.  

The Second Judicial Circuit Mental Health Court has been operating in Sioux Falls since January 2020, this is the 3rd graduation cohort for the Court.

Media Contact:
Michael Hanson
Mental Health Court Coordinator
Michael.hanson@ujs.state.sd.us
(605) 403-3448