Rutherford County – TN (12/01/2023) A packed courtroom witnessed nine graduates this week of the arduous 18-month  Recovery Court program which assists individuals with intervention, treatment, and rehabilitation surrounding substance use disorders.  

Circuit Court Judge Jimmy Turner presided over the ceremony that allowed each participant to share a personal testimony of their experience in the program.  Relationships restored with children, family, friends, homelessness overcome, and jobs obtained were some of the results of the program. 

One participant overdosed 27 times and was thankful to his mom for administering Narcan before first responders arrived. 

“I’m no longer a victim,” one participant said.  

During the commencement address Mayor Joe Carr said,” This is the most important part of my job and yields the greatest return on investment possible, a second chance at hope. We are appreciative that the County Commission has approved an additional $1.5 million dollars to expand the program.”

Recovery Courts Director LaChelle Ricks said, “This isn’t the end of the journey, only the beginning.”

Over 400 participants have graduated from the Recovery Court since its founding in 2000 by now retired Circuit Court Judge Don R. Ash, who attended this graduation. 

More information about Recovery Court can be found at https://rutherfordcountytn.gov/recovery-court.

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