JUVENILE DRUG REHAB PROGRAM AWAITS FUNDING

Everything except the funding is in place for a new court-based drug rehabilitation program for juveniles in Cape Girardeau County.

Confirmation of a grant from the Missouri Department of Public Safety could arrive this week, but until it's received, treatment for teen-agers is on hold, said Randy Rhodes, head of the juvenile office for the 32nd Judicial Circuit.

"I have about three in detention right now who we would like to get into drug court, but we won't start until we get confirmation," Rhodes said.

Drug courts have gained popularity in Missouri and other states in recent years as an alternative to handling minor drug arrests. The courts offer intense local treatment and frequent scrutiny by judges, features which advocates say aren't available now.

A court for adult drug offenders is scheduled to start next month.

Drug court administrator Steve Narrow has built resources for the court since he opened his office in the courthouse basement in Jackson, Mo., in January.

Family Counseling Center will provide drug and alcohol treatment, while New Vision Youth and Family Services will give psychological counseling.

Including mental health assistance with drug court is vital, Rhodes said. Combined drug and mental problems are not uncommon among juveniles and should be treated as separate issues, he said.

Intense program

What makes drug courts an attractive option amid a myriad of programs is its intensity, Narrow said. The Cape Girardeau drug court will require spot urine checks twice a week, appearances before a judge at least once a week along with five days of treatment.

"About the only day when they won't be doing something scheduled for drug court is Sunday," Narrow said.

Narrow anticipates enrolling 15 juveniles this year into drug court, which takes a year to complete.

The drug and alcohol treatment program has been somewhat modified to relate to teen-agers, he said. One portion will include operating a radio-controlled car while wearing goggles that simulate a drunken driver's vision.

"With kids, you have to play some games," Narrow said. "It's fun, but then you see them saying, I didn't realize it was this bad.'"

Donations have helped

So far, support from the business community has been good. Blimpie Subs & Salads has donated $500 in coupons to the drug court, and Kelley Transportation Co. has sold the program taxi coupons at a discount and extended the time limit to use them by a year. Cape West 14 Cine donated movie passes, and U.S. Office Products gave discounts on office supplies.

Narrow was glad to get discounted calendars. He plans to give them to the teen-agers in drug court.