Berkshire County’s first drug court opens Thursday in Pittsfield. It will be just the third in western Massachusetts.
The other two drug courts are both in Franklin County, located in Greenfield and Orange. The voluntary program seeks to give those suffering from drug addiction — and facing criminal charges — a chance to rehabilitate and stay out of jail.
Judge Mary Hogan Sullivan, who oversees specialty courts for the state, said that new drug court locations previously were only added when a local judge requested them. But she said the Berkshire County court was added as part of a strategic plan.
“Pittsfield was a place that had a need based on its geographical location,” Hogan Sullivan said. “It’s difficult for people in Pittsfield to get other places.”
Springfield is also in line for a drug court, but when it will open isn’t clear. State Senator Eric Lesser announced last year it would be up and running in 2016. Sullivan Hogan said that’s still the hope.
“I couldn’t speak to exactly when it will open,” Hogan Sullivan said. “There are always needs. You need to make sure you have enough probation officers and that kind of thing, but it’s definitely on our list.”
There are 24 drug courts across Massachusetts.