The Turn is pleased to announce the graduation of Isaac Hamilton from its program. The Turn is an adult drug court diversion program that is extremely stringent and requires those in the program to meet numerous requirements to have their felony cases reduced to misdemeanors and avoid jail time.
The program lasts anywhere from 14 to 24 months and among the requirements are that those in the program are drug tested at least twice a week – up to 200 times in a year. Passing through the course is difficult and requires an incredible about of effort and commitment.
Operated through the 10th Judicial District, The Turn is a voluntary program that holds the offender accountable for meeting their obligations to the court, society and their families. It involves the collaboration between all criminal justice stakeholders in a particular case – judge, prosecutor, defense attorney, probation officer, treatment provider, law enforcement and social services. The objectives of The Turn are to break the cycle of addiction, reduce recidivism and produce productive citizens.
Completing The Turn is an achievement that is celebrated. Hamilton is one of approximately 25 individuals who have completed the rigorous course over the last four years. Due to COVID-19 and social distancing concerns, Hamilton’s graduation will be held virtually. Anyone is invited to attend the Zoom meeting commemorating this achievement at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28. The keynote speaker will be past graduate of The Turn Jared Duncan. Those wishing to watch the ceremony are instructed to go www.zoom.com, enter the Meeting ID number 160 147 4137 and the password 358865. To obtain a direct Zoom link, contact Maria Taylor, The Turn Drug Court Coordinator, at Maria.Taylor@courts.state.mn.us.