

Alcohol and substance use disorders (SUDs) are correlated with criminal activity (e.g., drug-related theft, drug possession, drinking/driving offenses, domestic violence, and other crimes) and are primary risk factors for criminal recidivism. Persons with criminal justice involvement currently account for 47% of all treatment admissions to OASAS certified programs. Historically, the criminal justice response to alcohol/substance abuse has been incarceration, leading to a revolving door in the justice system. Since the mid 1990’s, new approaches focused on treating substance use disorders have become common in the criminal justice world.
OASAS works closely with the 147 Drug Treatment Courts in New York State. These courts couple intensive treatment for substance use disorder with ongoing judicial monitoring, resulting in reduced recidivism, reduction/elimination of substance use, increased employment, re-unification of families, and lower costs to society.
OASAS works closely with Criminal Justice partners to help offenders access treatment. These efforts include: