Las Vegas Justice Court Secures $110,000 for DUI Program

Las Vegas Justice Court will use a new state grant to expand its treatment program for repeat drunken driving offenders.

The Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety awarded the court $110,000 on Monday. The funds are designated to support the 2027 DUI Treatment Court, a specific track within the justice system designed for individuals with multiple misdemeanor convictions.

The program, which originated in 2003, focuses on medical intervention rather than incarceration for eligible defendants. Participants in the court-ordered track must attend regular therapy sessions and submit to random alcohol and drug screenings. The court utilizes electronic monitoring tools, including ignition interlock breath devices, GPS trackers, and wearable alcohol sensors, to oversee compliance.

Judge Cynthia Cruz stated that the program targets the root causes of substance abuse to alter driving habits. She noted that the additional funding is necessary to maintain the current capacity for serving repeat offenders. Last year, seventy individuals were enrolled in the program. Three participants were removed or terminated, resulting in a 96 percent retention rate.

The grant also covers the salary of a specialty courts coordinator. This role involves screening new defendants, assessing their mental health and substance abuse needs, and linking them with community resources. The coordinator ensures that the court continues to track the progress of every participant under supervision.