Grant Aims to Rehabilitate Repeat DUI Offenders, Fight Substance Abuse, Keep Costs in Line / Funding Would Aid Public Safety, Nonviolent PA Offenders
Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) called on the Bureau of Justice Assistance to strongly consider Lebanon County’s application for an Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant. The funds would help expand and improve a substance-abuse rehabilitation program for nonviolent, repeat DUI offenders, as part of an effort to keep costs in line and help offenders on the road to recovery.
“Law enforcement should have the resources they need to combat crime and drug use,” Senator Casey said. “I’m calling on the Bureau of Justice Assistance to fund this application, which will be instrumental in helping the Lebanon County DUI Court to treat and supervise offenders in a manner that helps rehabilitate their lives and also discourages future abuse and crime.”
The full text of Senator Casey’s letter can be seen below:
Denise E. O’Donnell
Director
Bureau of Justice Assistance
Office of Justice Programs
Dear Ms. O’Donnell,
It is my understanding that the Lebanon County (Pennsylvania) Commissioners have submitted an application to the U.S. Department of Justice for an Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant. The purpose of this letter is to urge you to give full and fair consideration to this proposal.
I have been advised that the County will use this funding to expand its existing program to include drug-related DUI offenders, and offer additional supervision and recovery services. I am informed that the expansion of the county’s program would allow for up to 70 county residents to participate if they have a diagnosis of substance abuse, have no violent arrest history, and have a second or third DUI offense. As it appears, this initiative will bolster Lebanon County’s efforts to reduce drug use and crime while saving money and helping rehabilitate lives.
Thank you in advance for the consideration of my views. Please include this letter in the official record of the application. Consistent with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, I also respectfully request that you keep me informed of the status of this grant application. Finally, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact me or my staff.
Sincerely,
Robert P. Casey, Jr.
United States Senator
