Manatee County Drug Court Program

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG) allows states, tribes, and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own local needs and conditions. Grant funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice for any one or more of the following purpose areas: 1) law enforcement programs; 2) prosecution and court programs; 3) prevention and education programs; 4) corrections and community corrections programs; 5) drug treatment programs; 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs; and 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation).

The county of Manatee will utilize its Fiscal Year 2008 JAG award in the amount of $69,096 to provide treatment for adult misdemeanor and felony non-violent offenders. The Manatee County Drug Court (MCDC) is a one-year program, allowing first time non-violent offenders with a Pre-Trial Investigation status to complete the program within nine months as long as the participant remains current with all fees, are gainfully employed or enrolled in an educational or vocational program, and have never tested positive for any illegal or prohibited substances. The mission of the MCDC is to reduce crime and substance abuse by adult offenders through drug treatment and judicial supervision, while promoting educational and vocational participation and improved social functioning, resulting in decreased recidivism and a safer community. JAG funds will be used to support a portion of the contractual services provided by the Manatee Glens Corporation, a community-based, not-for-profit mental health and substance abuse treatment provider in Manatee County.

NCA/NCF