From left, Amy Farmer (wife of Scott Farmer), Kosciusko Drug Court Program’s 50th Graduate Scott Farmer and Judge Michael Reed. InkFreeNews photo by Lasca Randels.

WARSAW — As the Kosciusko County Drug Court Program approaches the end of its sixth year of operation, a ceremony was held Monday, Nov. 4, in recognition of the 50th graduate of the program. 

Scott Farmer, the program’s 50th graduate, was presented with a certificate and a medallion by Kosciusko Circuit Court Judge Michael Reed.

The drug court program is designed for individuals who meet criteria for a severe substance use disorder and are at high risk for criminal re-offense or likely to fail other supervision. 

Program participants engage in an 18 to 28 month, four-phase program consisting of in-depth treatment for substance use disorder and mental health issues, self-help meetings and volunteer projects. Depending on the specific needs of each participant, residential treatment and educational programs may be included. During this time, participants begin to rebuild and mend relationships with family members and positive peer supports.

The program, which began accepting participants in January 2014, currently has 29 active participants. The program has had a total of 97 participants, including 73 males and 24 females. The program graduation rate is 73.5 percent.

After non-renewal of a federal grant for the fiscal year 2018, the Kosciusko County Drug Court was left without funds to continue providing services for current and future participants. The Kosciusko County Community Corrections voted to absorb the program during a special meeting held in September 2017. On Jan. 1, 2018, the KCDC Program was put under the KCC umbrella.

At the graduation event Monday, Reed discussed the success of drug courts.

“High need, high risk — that’s who we serve,” Reed said. “Drug courts are successful. If you follow the program and do the things you’re supposed to do, it’s effective.”

“I’m glad he’s (Farmer) the 50th graduate because I think he’s a great example of the other 49,” Reed said. “The best way to stay sober and to help yourself is to help others. He’s been drug-free since Sept. 5, 2017.”

“Scott has been a joy to work with. He has a great attitude and a great sense of humor,” said Maggie Brauer, Kosciusko County Drug Court case manager. “He had a phenomenal performance overall on the program.”

“That’s the longest I’ve ever been sober since I started doing drugs,” Farmer said. “I never thought I wanted to be sober before — ever. And now, I don’t think about doing drugs at all. I don’t have any urge. I could never go back to that. The program works.”

Farmer’s wife, Amy, attended the graduation event.

“I’m very proud of him,” Amy said. 

Refreshments were served after Farmer was presented with his certificate and medallion.