St. John's needs a drug treatment court, says lawyer

St. John's lawyer Johnathon McDonald says now is the time for the province to look at a different way of dealing with criminals who are in court because of a drug problem.

He believes the answer can be found in the establishment of a drug treatment court.

McDonald said it's quite evident that drug addiction is on the rise in Newfoundland and Labrador, and many of those going through the court system are repeat offenders.

If we don't do anything with the treatment, they're quite likely to re-offend.- Johnathon McDonald

Many of them, added McDonald, are committing crimes in order to fuel their addictions and are not "bad people."

He said the criminal court system is well equipped to hold people responsible for their crimes, but not to address the addictions that got them in trouble in the first place.

He believes a drug treatment court can help.

"If we don't do anything with the treatment, they're quite likely to re-offend," said McDonald, who began practicing law in February.

Offenders are 'rewarded' for seeking treatment

There are drug treatment courts in some other provinces, and McDonald had some experience with the one in Dartmouth, N.S.

He said an accused can be redirected to a drug treatment court upon the recommendation of Crown and defence lawyers, with the ultimate decision in the hands of a judge.

Both the nature of the crimes and the level of addiction are considered, he added.

Once in drug treatment court, the accused can be required to complete a series of rehabilitation and treatment programs.

"Ultimately, if they are successful, they are discharged," said McDonald, adding it is a "reward" for following the steps laid out by the treatment court.

Financial fiscal challenges a factor

McDonald emphasized he is not advocating for treatment court in the most serious of crimes, but noted many of those willing to admit responsibility and do everything it takes to seek help could be seriously considered.

He said many people in the legal system are "grappling" with the issue of drug addiction and he believes it might be time to rally people in order to get the attention of government leaders.

"We can't sweep this issue aside anymore," he said.

McDonald said he understands the province is facing serious financial challenges, and must consider other priorities such as a new penitentiary and court complex.

However, he said, "I don't think you can put a price tag on how invaluable a drug treatment court would be."