A year ago, Zachary Presley wasn’t sure the newly formed drug court in Madison Parish was for him. The rules were stiff, the schedule was daunting and success was far from a given. But, Tuesday, he became the program’s first graduate and celebrated, not just the end of his time in the court system, but also more than a year of sobriety.
“He was not shy when he came in about telling us just what he thought about drug court, and it’s fair to say he was very skeptical,” said Sixth Judicial District Judge Laurie Brister, who helped spearhead the court’s beginnings back in 2019. “But his attitude quickly changed and we’re pleased to honor him here today.”
Presley eventually became one of five people accepted into the drug court program, which officially began in March of 2021. Brister said the low number of those working their way through the program is a combination of a cap in slots available (set at 10 by the grant funding the court) and the fact that both the court and the candidate must agree to enter into the process – which is itself a combination of normal court, therapy and conventional rehabilitation from drugs and/or alcohol.
"Drug court is voluntary," she said. "But, it is very tough. Very rigorous. But, it’s truly a life-changing experience.”
Madison Parish Sheriff Sammie Byrd, whose office recommended Presley as a possible candidate for the program, praised the court as a meaningful alternative to the traditional judicial system when it comes to handling drug offenses.
“For years now, law enforcement has received calls from parents about their children being on drugs,” Byrd said. “Problem is, as we all know, it gets worse as it goes along. Drug court gives us more options to help more children.”
Joseph Jackson, who runs Delta Recovery - an organization that aids the Madison Parish Drug Court in the rehabilitation process - said Presley’s example is a wonderful way for the newly installed program to start in the parish and offers hope for others in the system.
“A bright future awaits you beyond this experience,” Jackson told Presley during the graduation ceremony.
