[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 60 (Tuesday, May 10, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E921]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              RECOGNIZING THE BUFFALO DRUG TREATMENT COURT

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 10, 2005

  Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, in December 1995, the Buffalo Drug 
Treatment Court was established. The Buffalo Drug Treatment Court is 
recognized as a national mentor court and training site, providing the 
focus and leadership for community-wide, anti-drug systems, bringing 
together criminal justice, treatment, education and other community 
partners in the fight against drug abuse and criminality. The Honorable 
Thomas P. Amodeo, Buffalo City Court Chief Judge, and the Honorable 
Robert T. Russell, Jr., Presiding Judge of the Buffalo Drug Treatment 
Court are dedicated to the principle of restorative justice. They, 
along with their community partners in treatment and rehabilitation 
services, recognize the value of fair justice for the non-violent 
substance abuse offenders. The Buffalo Drug Treatment Court combines 
intensive judicial supervision, mandatory substance abuse treatment, 
on-site drug testing and escalating incentives and sanctions to break 
the cycle of drug addiction and its concomitant crime and societal 
harm. The Buffalo Drug Court Alumni Association is composed of 
graduates of the Buffalo Drug Court Program who provide ongoing 
exchange, support, assistance and volunteer service for those who have 
successfully completed the Drug Treatment Court. In recognition of all 
Buffalo Drug Court Graduates, the Buffalo Drug Court Alumni Association 
and the Buffalo Drug Treatment Court are coming together to sponsor a 
luncheon honoring the Treatment Counselors and Community on May 12, 
2005. This celebration of Buffalo Drug Court is symbolic of the care, 
compassion and spirit of Buffalo, and the hope we have for our 
community and our citizens.




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