Richard S. Gebelein

In the following viewpoint, Richard S. Gebelein argues that drug courts, which seek to rehabilitate criminals with drug arrest records through a combination of treatment, testing, and judicial supervision, have helped reduce recidivism rates. He asserts that these courts are more effective than traditional approaches such as voluntary treatment because drug courts combine treatment with specific deterrence, judicial interaction, and continuing education and monitoring. However, Gebelein cautions that while drug courts have been successful, as more varied criminals are entered into such programs, success rates are likely to fall and a backlash against drug courts could occur. Gebelein is an associate judge in the Superior Court of Delaware and the founder of Delaware’s Statewide Drug Court.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. How many drug courts had been...