Substance use and criminal justice involvement are closely linked. National research has consistently found that a large share of people in jails and prisons meet criteria for a substance use disorder or were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of their offense.(Source) Yet only a minority receive evidence-based addiction treatment while incarcerated.(Source)

Many public health and addiction medicine experts now view substance use disorders as chronic medical conditions that are often better addressed with treatment than with punishment alone.(Source) This shift in thinking has led to expanded use of drug courts, diversion programs, and court-ordered rehab as a way to reduce re-arrest, support long-term recovery, and improve community safety.

Even after release, the cycle can be hard to break. Studies show that people leaving incarceration have a high risk of returning to substance use and facing new legal problems if they do not receive adequate treatment and support.(Source) Court-ordered treatment is one way the legal system attempts to interrupt this cycle and offer a structured path toward recovery.