The Prince William County Adult Recovery Court provides individuals facing felony charges with an alternative to incarceration, focusing on sobriety and community reintegration. The program, which began in July 2022, is a collaborative effort involving the 31st Judicial Circuit Court, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, the Office of the Public Defender, Community Services Board, Criminal Justice Services, Sheriff’s Office, Police Department, Adult Detention Center, Virginia Department of Corrections District 35 Probation and Parole, and various community partners. Participants are required to complete a five-phase process that includes achieving sobriety, adopting healthier behaviors and thought patterns, securing stable housing, maintaining employment, and engaging in restorative activities. The program typically takes up to 18 months.
Recently, five participants graduated from the program during a ceremony at Judge Kimberly A. Irving’s courtroom at the Prince William County Judicial Center.
Graduate David Ledon described his experience: “I didn’t know that over the last 18 months that this program wasn’t only going to keep me from ever going back to prison, it was going to change my pattern, my thought process,” said Ledon. “It was going to change everything.” He added: “The pressures are still there. The stressors are still there. Life is still happening, but today, through the program, I have learned to deal with life on my terms and keep pushing forward without making the wrong choices. It’s amazing to be able to do something different with my life.”
William Ventura credited the court for helping him manage addiction: “I learned to keep from using in my daily life. I went from living on the streets to having this court,” Ventura said. “This is the longest I’ve stayed clean, and I want to continue working on myself to stay positive not only for myself but for my mom.”
Laura Morris thanked those who supported her journey: “I’m thankful for this opportunity and this new start,” Morris said. “I’m proud of myself but obviously I didn’t get here on my own. Left to my own devices I’d still be in a jail cell. It’s a constant reassurance that I was capable of complying with such a structured program.” Morris noted personal challenges during her recovery: “I’m not aiming for perfect,” she said. “I will be continuously working toward learning to cope. Every day I find something to live for, find sobriety and to live my life with integrity. I’ll make good use of my time. I am not my crimes today. For the justice system to recognize that is remarkable.”
Judge Kimberly A. Irving commented on her connection with graduates: “This is an amazing group. I’m honestly going to miss all five of you because you brought something to our Thursdays together and we’re all better for having heard your stories and watching your success,” Irving said.
Senior Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney Alexander Brandler highlighted outcomes so far: “Every single person who has gone through what they have gone through has become a productive member of the community and that is how I think we keep the community safe,” Brandler said regarding all 11 graduates since inception.
Brandler moved for dismissal of charges against all recent graduates; Judge Irving accepted his motion.
For more information about participating in Adult Treatment Court or recovery programs in Prince William County contact Recovery Court Coordinator Sarah Allen at [email protected] or call 703-792-6258.
