The Second Judicial District Court of Nevada marked the 30th anniversary of its Adult Drug Court (ADC), a program that has provided rehabilitation opportunities for offenders since 1995. Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) participated in the event, highlighting the ongoing partnership between education and specialty courts in Washoe County.
Jarret Orcutt, coordinator of TMCC’s Justice Involved Education (JIVE) program, spoke at the celebration. He stressed the importance of education as a means for personal growth and emphasized its role in helping participants rebuild their lives after involvement with the justice system.
The event included remarks from judges, program alumni, and a certificate of recognition from the Nevada Governor. Judge Tammy Riggs, who presides over the Adult Drug Court, stated: “This celebration not only honors the longevity and impact of the Adult Drug Court but also reaffirms the Court’s commitment to fostering lives of recovery, stability, and hope in our community.”
Since its start with four participants in 1995, Washoe County’s Specialty Courts have expanded to include programs such as Felony DUI Court, MAT Court for medication-assisted treatment, Mental Health Court, Prison Re-Entry Court, Veterans Treatment Court, and Young Offender Court. These courts use a model that combines treatment with regular judicial oversight and drug testing. Teams of professionals support participants’ recovery efforts.
Research shows that drug courts can reduce repeat offenses by up to half. By focusing on treatment rather than punishment alone, these courts aim to help individuals overcome substance use disorders and avoid future legal trouble.
Education is considered an important part of rehabilitation within these programs. TMCC’s JIVE initiative offers tuition assistance and guidance to justice-involved students—including those currently in custody—who enroll in college courses or pursue career credentials. Academic advisors work with each student to create plans tailored to their goals.
“Our JIVE program works on both ends of the justice system continuum,” Orcutt explained. “We support individuals just getting involved with the justice system and those exiting prison, because we know the supports needed are the same in both cases.”
Combining education with court programs has led to positive outcomes for graduates. According to feedback cited by officials from TMCC and state corrections authorities, former offenders who complete educational programs often secure stable employment or start businesses locally.
“Not a week goes by that someone doesn’t thank me for the chance to go to school,” one official wrote about TMCC’s partnership with specialty courts.
Looking ahead, TMCC and Washoe County Specialty Courts plan to expand their collaboration through new initiatives like Prison Re-Entry Court. These efforts focus on providing college access and job training for people leaving incarceration.
Orcutt summarized his message at the anniversary event: “Education is not just about learning from books,” he said. “It’s about growing as a person and becoming everything you want to be.”
For more information about educational partnerships related to these programs, contact Educational Partnerships Programs or call 775-673-7060.