Cecilia Dowd

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Sep 15, 2023, 5:48 PM

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Updated

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More than a dozen people graduated from Suffolk County Treatment Court Friday.

The program helps those struggling with alcohol, drug and mental health issues who have gotten into trouble with the law.

Participants get treatment and counseling and avoid potential jail time. They're drug tested and must regularly check in.

James Porter, a past graduate, spoke at Friday's graduation. He said the program saved his life. He was addicted to heroin, in and out of jail and living in his car. He now has a job, fiancée and little boy.

The director of the program in Suffolk County says that statewide, more than 75% of graduates don't get rearrested.

Porter said what this program offers is really special. He said it's tough but worth it.

Judge Jennifer A. Henry presides over the drug court. She said the most rewarding part is watching as people piece their lives back together "and to have a new opportunity to really live and be well and healthy."