Ottawa County (Mich.) Sobriety Court Program

This is a judicial redirection program for people accused of driving while intoxicated for the second time or for psychoactive substance abuse. The goal is to reduce incarceration, substance use, and the risk of recidivism.
The program offers daily breathalyzer and weekly drug tests, random home visits, and the application of sanctions and incentives.
A case manager develops a structured treatment plan together with the court. Participants must remain employed and attend two hearings per week, in addition to individual and group therapy (Alcoholics/Narcotics Anonymous). The intervention lasts at least 17.5 months and at most 24 months.

Impact evaluations

An impact evaluation showed that, after the two-year follow-up period, program participants were less likely to recidivate, and their first arrest occurred after a longer period when compared to those in the control group, who did not receive treatment. However, there were no significant differences between the groups in terms of abuse of alcohol or other drugs.
The study had a quasi-experimental design with a sample of 143 people assigned to the treatment group and 66 to the comparison group [1].

Bibliographic reference

[1] Carey, S. M., Fuller, B. E. & Kissick, K. (2008). Michigan DUI Courts Outcome Evaluation: Final Report. Lansing, MI. Michigan Supreme Court. https://npcresearch.com/wp-content/uploads/MI_DUI_Outcome_Evaluation_FI….

Information source

Crime Solutions