Drug court gets recertified

NORWALK — A Norwalk program that endeavors to divert drug users toward recovery rather than prison once again got a green light from the state. The Norwalk Municipal Court's Drug Court program gained recertification from the Ohio Supreme Court Commission on Specialized Dockets, according to a news release from the municipal court. Norwalk Municipal Court Judge Eric Weisenburger said he was pleased the drug court was recertified. "We will continue to serve the public in addressing the ongoing and changing substance abuse issues in our county," Weisenburger said. "We are especially grateful to observe those who successfully complete the program and acknowledge their hard work to become sober, responsible and productive members of our community." Ohio courts seeking certification for a specialized docket, like Norwalk's drug court, must submit an application, undergo a site visit and report on practices and provide specific program materials, the release states. "Specialized dockets offer an alternative to incarceration, and reflect a community's belief in second chances," Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy said. Certification requirements include: • Establishing eligibility requirements • Evaluating the effectiveness of the specialized docket • Assembling a treatment team for implementing daily operations of the specialized docket