Drug Court

As of January 1, 2014, there are 50 operational drug court programs in Louisiana. Each program is compromised of a drug court team which is led by a drug court judge and includes a drug court coordinator, treatment staff, prosecutor(s), public defender(s), law enforcement representative(s), case manager(s), and others who work together to ensure that the program operates according to all applicable standards and policies.

Louisiana's drug courts are demanding programs that require frequent drug testing intensive treatment, judicial oversight, and community supervision and support to ensure the best possible outcomes for offenders with substance abuse problems. While more intensive, these programs are typically less expensive and ultimately more effective than those associated with involvement in traditional correction and supervision settings.

Key Components

Louisiana's drug courts are based on the following key components for drug courts developed by the U.S. Department of Justice. These components serve as a touchstone for program planning, operations, and evaluation.

• Drug courts integrate alcohol and other drug treatment services with justice system case processing.
• Using a non-adversarial approach, prosecution and defense counsel promote public safety while protecting participants’ due process rights.
• Eligible participants are identified early and promptly placed in the drug court program.
• Drug courts provide access to a continuum of alcohol, drug, and other related treatment and rehabilitation services.
• Abstinence is monitored by frequent testing for alcohol and other drugs.
• A coordinated strategy governs drug court responses to participants’ compliance.
• Ongoing judicial interaction with each drug court participant is essential.
• Monitoring and evaluation measure the achievement of program goals and gauge effectiveness.
• Continuing interdisciplinary education promotes effective drug court planning, implementation, and operations.
• Forging partnerships among drug courts, public agencies, and community-based organizations generates local support and enhances drug court program effectiveness.

Contact Information

30th Judicial District Drug Court
Kenny Pollard, Coordinator
P.O. Box 1700
Leesville, LA 71496
Phone: (337)238-4095
kwpollard@hotmail.com