VILLAS – Lower Township will begin working with a New Jersey Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor provided by Cape Assist out of Wildwood in the Lower Township Municipal Court to serve as a public advocate in April. The township joins Middle Township and the City of Wildwood in the public advocacy program.
It is well understood that those suffering from addiction often commit crime to support their addiction. They steal merchandise from stores, metal from vacant buildings, jewelry and money from family and friends, and even resort to more serious crimes such as robbery and burglary.
When those suffering from such addiction are arrested for these crimes they often appear in municipal court. Defendants who suffer from addiction who are arrested for more serious crimes often can learn about addiction services available to them, often through “Drug Court.” However, with less serious offenses that are heard under the authority of the local municipal court, there are no resources available for these defendants.
The absence of any resources available in municipal court often leaves defendants, family members of those suffering from addiction, and even the judge with few options regarding treatment or assistance.
The public advocate will be present in the Lower Township Municipal Court starting April 10, to assist defendants suffering from addiction, their family members, the municipal prosecutor, and the judge with providing information about available treatment programs and resources.
The public advocate will also serve as a resource for the Lower Township Police Department in providing information about treatment programs to individuals who need assistance and information regarding substance abuse for themselves, a friend, or a loved one.
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