To meet the needs of drug-addicted offenders, Missouri implemented three drug-abuse treatment programs that rehabilitate offenders at various stages of criminal activity. The Offenders Under Treatment, Post Conviction Treatment, and Long-Term Cocaine Addiction programs treat offenders on probation, in prison, and on parole. Since the programs" implementation nearly 10 years ago, Missouri's recidivism rates have decreased considerably. The programs" reported success provides evidence that treating drug addiction the first time offenders are convicted is more effective than incarcerating individuals and releasing them to society without treating their addiction. These programs should serve as a model for other states combating recidivism.
.
Effectiveness of Missouri's Department of Corrections Drug Rehabilitation Programs.
In 1994, Missouri State Senate Bill 763 authorized the formation of three innovative drug programs to tackle specific substance-abuse problems within the state of Missouri: The Offenders Under Treatment Program, The Post Conviction Drug Program, and The Long-Term Cocaine Addiction Program. The program lengths range from 12 weeks to a year and a half and can include daily supervision, weekly urinalysis, incarceration, conditional probation, parole, and continued regimented supervision. The Required Educational Assessment and Community Treatment (REACT) Program, administered by the Department of Corrections (DOC) and the Department of Mental Health, assesses inmates" acceptance into these programs. Since the programs" inception, Missouri's recidivism rates have decreased considerably; for this reason, it should be considered a model for other states attempting to lower recidivism rates.
Program Overview.
Offenders Under Treatment Program (Phase I).
The Offenders Under Treatment Program (Phase I) is an outpatient drug-treatment that may include education, treatment, and rehabilitation programs.
