News
Wayne County Drug and Treatment Court Earns Pennsylvania Supreme Court Certification
August 18, 2026
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has officially certified Wayne County’s Drug and Treatment Court, marking an important step for the county’s justice system.
Certification shows the county’s strong commitment to innovative approaches while delivering high-quality services. As a result, more people in Wayne County can recover and build stable, productive lives, while building community trust and support.
“Treatment courts transform lives, reconnect families, and help create safer communities by focusing on the root causes of criminal behavior,” said Pennsylvania Supreme Court Justice P. Kevin Brobson. “The Wayne County Drug Treatment Court operates at the highest standards, by using evidence-based practices, it gives participants a true opportunity for lifelong recovery and meaningful change.”
Treatment court programs help eligible people get treatment and support as they prepare to return to their communities. In Wayne County, the certified Treatment Court includes accountability and intensive supervision. It connects participants with jobs, housing, treatment, education, mental health, and other needed services.
“Our drug and treatment court has high expectations while providing strong support for every participant,” said Wayne County President Judge Janine Edwards, who oversees the treatment court. “This certification reflects the dedication of our team and partners, and our commitment to treatment with intensive supervision when appropriate and consistent with public safety.”
Treatment courts help people change through treatment rather than sending them to jail. Judges are more involved, and participants receive close supervision and access to the services they need.
In Wayne County, judges, probation officers, treatment providers, and other professionals work as a team. Together, they help participants build sober, productive lives and create a sense of shared purpose and trust.
Pennsylvania’s first drug court opened in Philadelphia in 1997, starting a strong statewide movement. Since then, programs have expanded to include DUI courts, juvenile drug courts, veterans courts, and mental health courts. This growth shows our courts’ commitment to meeting the needs of different groups.
Today, Pennsylvania has more than 136 treatment courts. These courts help people with substance use, mental health, and co-occurring disorders work toward recovery and build support in their communities. Pennsylvania leads by building partnerships and investing significant resources in these programs.
“When courts, treatment providers, and community partners work together, we see lower recidivism, stronger families, cost savings, and healthier communities across the Commonwealth,” said Justice Brobson.
Certifying Wayne County’s Drug and Treatment Court demonstrates a strong commitment to new approaches and better justice outcomes, and it encourages community support.
Editor’s Note:
Since 2017, 47 participants have graduated from Wayne County’s Drug and Treatment Court, demonstrating the program's positive impact and inspiring community confidence.
##
Media Contact: Kim Bathgate, 717-576-4373