Therapeutic court program receives grants

COLFAX — Additional funding has been awarded to the Whitman County District Court to expand therapeutic services.

The court recently received grants include:

• $115,000 to support a community justice counselor/director position.

• $232,000 for therapeutic court services. This is added to an original $181,900 grant that the Whitman County District Court secured over $528,000 for therapeutic services.

“The creation of our community court revealed two challenges,” District Court Judge John Hart said. “We immediately recognized an overwhelming strain on our human resources.

“Additionally, whether it was based on the type of offense and/or criminal history, many of those in greatest need for therapeutic services do not qualify for pre-adjudicative community court program. ”

The first therapeutic court launched at the beginning of 2022, primarily funded with state funding.

The program is designed to address low-level, non-violent offenders with substance abuse and mental health issues.

The program lasts 1-2 years and requires a participant to attend court no less than twice a month, attend counseling services and vocational training and education.

“We are excited for the opportunity to expand and enhance our therapeutic services,” Hart said.