FOX 21 News, KQDS-DT

DULUTH - Ten years ago, judges, county attorneys, correction officers and other community members decided a different approach was needed in order to help people deal with their drug addictions.

"It was a big paradigm shift for us in how to operate how courts should function and how to really put everything together we need in order to really help people," said Jen Wright, senior supervisor for Arrowhead Regional Corrections.

Drug Court was born. Teams closely monitor offenders in the judicial system in a personal way, guiding them to sobriety and rewarding them along the way.

"They don't get a felony record if it's their first charge. If it's their second charge they still get a legal incentive but it does result in a conviction. It's just not a felony," said Wright.

The program has served more than 400 people during its 10 years. Each one with a unique story, but all sharing a time when they thought nobody could help.

"I was afraid I didn't know what the real world was because I had done drugs for so many years," said Rebecca Leamarotta, a graduate of Duluth Drug Court.

Leamarotta had been a drug user for 25 years, served jail time, been clean for 10 years before relapsing and finally considering drug court.

"I talked to my attorney and my attorney said just go talk to them, just go talk to drug court. I said I don't need those people. I don't need them. I'm just going to go back to prison and do my seven months and I’ll be done," said Leamarotta.

In Duluth and on the Range, county officials say 65 percent of participants who start Drug Court actually graduate.

Wright said, "That's really what keeps us going. We see folks coming back and getting jobs, going to college, buying houses, they're having drug free babies and their lives improve for the better."

Drug Court has given addicts the tools to succeed, but its graduates say it only works if the offender is willing.

Leamarotta said, "If you're not ready, go to prison. If you're ready, these people will get you there. They will help you. They will get you where you need to be and they will push you to be the best you can be. I believe that with all my heart."

Duluth Drug Court meets each Friday at 1 p.m. at the St. Louis County Courthouse in courtroom four. The sessions are open to the public.