Launched in 1992 and incorporated into CASES in 1998, the Treatment Readiness Program (TRP) operates out of Manhattan Criminal Court as a one-day alternative sentence for individuals with a first- or second-time misdemeanor drug charge. It is the only program of its kind in New York, providing education and immediate access to drug and alcohol treatment for offenders who would otherwise receive up to 15 days in jail.

TRP's premise is that ending drug and alcohol use is the best way to halt drug-related criminal behavior. It offers a unique combination of education, counseling, and the direct experience of visiting alcohol and drug treatment programs.

Enrollment

The program enrolls defendants with substance abuse problems that are mandated by judges in New York County Criminal Court.

Services

• Education and discussion groups - interactive sessions that teach specific strategies through which individuals can begin to achieve lifestyle change. Topics covered include HIV/AIDS, the medical model of addiction, consequential thinking, and the importance of treatment.
• Visits to treatment programs - program staff escort participants to a community-based alcohol or drug treatment program. Participants tour the treatment facility and are integrated into counseling sessions with other clients.
• Enrollment and referrals to treatment programs - if a TRP participant decides to enter treatment, an intake interview at the facility can be scheduled the same day. For participants who complete TRP and then later decide to pursue treatment, TRP provides referrals to appropriate programs.

Community Treatment Providers

CASES makes referrals to the following organizations, among others, based on the needs of the client.