County receives grant to start therapeutic court

COLFAX — Whitman County is establishing its first therapeutic court with a funding grant of $181,900.

The new version of the court is for “low-level, non-violent offenders afflicted with a substance abuse disorder or another mental health issue,” stated Whitman County District Court Administrator Marlynn Markley.

Instead of the normal criminal justice system path, it provides a 12-24 month alternative leading to counseling services, vocational training, education, and other services.

“It requires the participant to take full accountability for their actions,” stated Markley. “If the program is...