By JoAnn Bocca-Rivieccio
Let’s talk Drug Courts …. Recovery court is considered a specialty court and The Judge at the Somerville Court House is not a fan of Specialty courts.
I don’t think any one person should decide whether this type of court should or shouldn’t be in the Somerville or not. With an epidemic consuming so many lives in this country shame on you !!! When someone’s life depends on it …
The specialty courts available for example at Cambridge Third District Court are Homeless , Mental Health and Recovery courts .
I have yet to go to a Recovery Court Session, But will take a day off from work to go in the very near future.
My first specialty court visited was during the summer on a Friday afternoon. I witnessed an inspiring court session. JudgeRoanne Sragow is one of the most compassionate court professionals I have ever encountered. She along with former Alderman Robert McWatters ( recently retired PO) and other court personnel always do their utmost best to help persons in need. I consider them to be the dream team. The success rate is exceptionly high and everyone that graduates receives a certificate.
I have been told even though Somerville doesn’t have specialty courts, a request to go to Cambridge is possible. I want also to mention that on Wednesday April 10th at 6pm there will be an Open Mic and Substance Abuse Discussion hosted by Teen Empowerment and SOA. Everyone is welcome to attend and perform.
I will be singing and reading a poem , so come and witness this event. Special guests Matt Ganem, Marcial Navigator Quinonezand Matty O’Malley will be there. Lets talk recovery as well,there will be many in recovery speaking about how it is certainly obtainable and they are living proof. Hope to see you there