A noble experiment with one purpose; to test whether a new and different approach
to handling repeat DUI offenders will yield an improved result. |
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The Chatham County DUI Court is "Problem Solving Court" for multiple DUI offenders under the jurisdiction of the Chatham County State Court. The Honorable H. Gregory Fowler presides over the Court. The DUI Court's goal is to confront the substance abuse issue underlying the repetitive pattern of offenders of driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs.
The sentencing judge may sentence anyone with two DUIs in a five year period, or three DUIs in a lifetime to participate. After sentencing, the court mandates substance abuse treatment, 12 step meeting attendance, random drug tests, biweekly court appearances and more, as a condition of probation. The treatment portion of DUI Court last a minimum of one year and includes a treatment program tailored to the individual needs of the participants. The participant pays treatment fees. If the participate fails to meet any requirements of DUI Court program, the presiding DUI Court judge will issue immediate sanctions. The sanctions may include additional community service, jail time or both. If the participant has multiple infractions, he may have his probation revoked.
The DUI Court started in May of 2003 and has graduated more than 255 participants. The DUI Court is a collaborative effort of the Court, the City of Savannah and Chatham County governments. It works with direct coordinated support from the District Attorney's office, PRIDE probation and the Recovery Place of Savannah. DUI Court participants also receive needed services from local social service agencies, public and private.
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Presiding Judge:
- Hon. H. Gregory Fowler
Program Coordinator:
- David A. Wood
 Pride Probation Services
Nikeya Blake
Recovery Place of Savannah
Kristina Blessing
- Download Community Resource List
- Click here for Research Results
- DUI Court 2007 Annual Report
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