By Marion Straw 

Ron Peoples and Misty Sanchez

Misty Sanchez (Specialty Officer II) started full time with the program in 2010 and says that they carry a caseload of about 185 clients at any given time and at this point they do not have a limit on the number of people who can enter the program. She said that last year they had a 90.5% graduation rate.  Misty likes the mix of this program being therapeutic yet still holding these individuals accountable for their actions. She says it is very enjoyable to see the drastic changes in these people lives while being able to be a small part of it.

Ron Peoples (Specialty Court Officer) has been with the program since 2011 and says that overall this is a great program. It provides the participants a unique opportunity of gaining the tools and skills they need to make changes in their lives, which in turn reduces recidivism rates for repeat DUI offenders. With caring staff, judges, and service providers we are able to provide a support network and environment conducive to recovery. He says it is a blessing to be part of such a wonderful team and network of caring people.

Both Misty and Ron stated they thought wearing the SCRAM bracelet was beneficial and allowed them more insight into how the technology works. They were both surprised at first how noticeable the bracelet was, but knew that they would eventually get used to it. Wearing it places they were able to feel the social stigma of the bracelet first hand.  Misty said, "she now has more empathy and understanding to what the client has to go through and experience." Ron stated, "He was able to dispel some of the myths he had heard regarding the bracelet, and gained useful knowledge as to how to direct clients when wearing SCRAMx."

Justin Champagne

He stated he had no experience with specialty courts before this but was asked by Jeremy Bosler (also with the Public Defenders Office) if he would be interested in getting in on the ground floor of this new program. He took a chance to try something new and has enjoyed the learning process as the program has grown from one client to nearly 200.

He says, "I've been extremely happy with my time in the SB277 program and although there are stressful times for everyone involved, I feel very fortunate to be able to help the clients in my own little ways so they can succeed with the program."

I have to say watching Justin every week greet each client with a handshake and a pat on the back is refreshing and you can tell he genuinely cares about them and his role in this program.

Justin goes on to say, "The changes the clients make over the course of three years is amazing and it is great to watch these transformations. It is the best part of my week when I get to see a client graduate and have their felony dismissed."