The Baltimore City District Court is set to celebrate the latest graduates of its drug treatment court program on December 12. The event will feature Baltimore City State’s Attorney-elect Marilyn Mosby as the keynote speaker. The ceremony will take place at 9 a.m. in Courtroom 1 of the Borgerding District Court Building, located at 5800 Wabash Ave., Baltimore.
Participants in this program have completed an intensive regimen that blends judicial oversight with rigorous treatment and supervision. Judges Jamey H. Hueston and Leon R. Cooper will oversee the proceedings as graduates receive their certificates and have the opportunity to speak to the court, their families, and peers.
The Baltimore City District Court's drug treatment initiative began in 1994 and has grown significantly since then, now encompassing over 40 similar programs across Maryland. The previous graduation took place in June with 31 individuals completing the program.
This occasion marks Judge Hueston’s final graduation ceremony after two decades dedicated to aiding those struggling with addiction to reclaim their lives.
Judge Hueston was instrumental in founding one of the first drug courts in America and is recognized as a pioneer in this field. She also helped establish the National Association of Drug Court Professionals.
Greg Warren, regional director for Gaudenzia, praised Judge Hueston's efforts: “I have worked with Judge Jamey Hueston for over a decade and have never met a stronger advocate for treatment and public safety.” He highlighted her role in fostering collaboration between judicial systems and treatment providers, leading to reduced recidivism rates.
Caroline S. Cooper from American University lauded Judge Hueston's work: “The citizens of Maryland owe Judge Jamey Hueston our tremendous gratitude for her pioneering efforts.” Cooper emphasized how Judge Hueston's initiatives have saved significant taxpayer money while changing perceptions within the justice system regarding nonviolent drug offenders.
Ambassador Paul E. Simons acknowledged Judge Hueston's international contributions: “Judge Jamey Hueston has been a valuable and consistent partner in our efforts to introduce the drug treatment court model to other countries.”
Reflecting on her tenure, Judge Hueston stated: “Serving 20 years in the Baltimore Drug Court has been a joy and the highlight of my judicial career.”
Media personnel are invited to attend but must secure prior approval for camera use by contacting Maryland Judiciary Office of Communications at 410-260-1488.