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Three Graduate Problem Solving Court For Domestic Violence

Last updated on Tuesday, October 30, 2018

(BEDFORD) - The mission of the first Problem Solving Court for domestic violence in the state is to focus on ending the cycle of domestic violence through timely, focused and collaborative response.

During a ceremony Tuesday, advisors of the court and fellow participants celebrated the hard work and accomplishments of these three individuals - Taylor Dalton, William Harrison and a 35-year-old male who didn't wish to be named.

The goal of the court is to open the door on domestic violence and put some light on the problem and end the cycle.

Judge John Plummer III, who oversees the program, says these three men worked very hard to turn their lives around. They have established employment, assumed family responsibilities, actively participated in recovery programs and completed a Safe Journal. They display attitudes that make them successful role models for other participants and members of the community.

'I have literally seen the lives of these participants change," says Judge Plummer.

Lawrence County established the Problem Solving Court for domestic violence in August 2015 under the direction of former Judge Michael Robbins. It was the first in the state. Now there are 100 certified domestic violence courts in the state and 17 in the process of getting certified.

From Jan. 2017 until December 31, 2017, the court completed 1,111 random chemical tests on participants. Of those. only five participants tested positive for alcohol, two for meth and one for opioids. Officials made 711 home visits finding no incidents or violations. All found gainful employment and two earned their GEDs. None have been re-arrested.

Taylor Dalton surrendered his ways of thinking. He is now 2 1/2 years sober, earned his GED, employed and enrolling in college.

"I surrendered my ways of thinking," he added. "I have a willingness to do what it takes to be successful....Everything I have learned will stay with me for the rest of my life."

William Harrison said in his drunken status he had "emotional reactions."

The 35-year-old male says his family ties are stronger because of what he learned in problem-solving court.

"I have learned to channel my anger into positive things instead of violence" he added. "I love how my life is now. I don't ever plan to go back to the chaos my life was before."

"I had to learn to surrender," he added. "Once I did that, I started to rebuild my life."

Harrison gave advice to those who are not in the problem-solving court and need help.

"Don't let pride, fear or embarrassment stop you from reaching out for help," he added.

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