COLUMBUS (May 15, 2006) - Governor Bob Taft announced today that six Ohio counties have been named pilot sites for a new innovative program that will provide individuals convicted of minor drug crimes with intensive alcohol and drug treatment services rather than incarceration.

"Ohio's current system of drug courts and the quality treatment services they provide have resulted in reduced recidivism for offenders," Taft said. "Today we are going a step further to help communities provide the counseling and other drug treatment services to help individuals to assume a productive role in society rather than a long-term member of Ohio's prison system."

Allen, Franklin, Hamilton, Mahoning, Richland and Washington counties will share $2.5 million in funds to support community-based treatment services for juveniles or adults with children who are at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

The counties will determine the treatment and life skills opportunities offered and what types of offenses would fall within the program. The incentive for offenders to successfully complete a program may include the clearing of a criminal record or having charges dismissed or records sealed. For others, the prospect and pride that comes from finding a job and taking care of their family, rather than going to jail, may serve as an enticement to participate.

This pilot program, pending approval by the Ohio Controlling Board, will receive funding through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services and treatment services through the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services.

A significant part of Ohio's current system to help offenders achieve recovery from their alcohol and other drug addictions is the state's drug court network. There are currently 65 drug court programs throughout Ohio: twenty-nine adult drug courts; twenty-three juvenile drug courts; and thirteen family drug courts that deal with parents charged with abuse, neglect or dependency issues.

Ohio also has 17 active Treatment Alternatives to Street Crime (TASC) programs that provide case management for offenders involved in the court system and substance abuse. The TASCs will serve as models of best practices to coordinate court involvement, treatment services and other support services as needed.

The Governor's Executive Order is available at www.taftnews.com.

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