County DWI Court was established in 2008

Each day, Otter Tail County’s Justice and Safety teams engage with individuals affected by substance use and mental health disorders—challenges that often underlie criminal behavior. Many individuals cycle in and out of the justice system without effective intervention. Otter Tail County Treatment Courts break that cycle through accountability, treatment, and intensive supervision.

Established in 2008 and 2022, Otter Tail County DWI Court and Drug Treatment Courts served more than 246 individuals. These courts are among the county’s most impactful justice system interventions, offering a proven path to recovery, family reunification, and community stability.

“When someone finds stability in recovery, it doesn’t just change one life—it changes an entire family,” said Treatment Court Probation Agent Hallie Metcalf. “Treatment courts give people a second chance and the tools to succeed.”

Treatment courts represent a shift in how the justice system addresses certain offenses. Rather than relying solely on incarceration, these courts bring together judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, probation officers, social workers, and treatment providers to build personalized plans that support lasting recovery and reduce recidivism.

May marks National Treatment Court Month, a time to highlight how these courts reduce crime, lower costs, and improve public safety. Otter Tail County is proud to share the stories of graduates who have rebuilt their lives with the help of a treatment court.

One graduate, Britteny, shared, “Drug Court gave me the space to rebuild. I learned to prioritize my self-care, which is something I never did before. That became my foundation. This life-changing experience helped me rebuild myself from the ground up,” she added.

She described how the program helped her focus on all aspects of her health, make positive lifestyle changes, and rebuild trust with family. “I’ve built stronger boundaries, reconnected with my family, and taken financial responsibility seriously. It’s helped me grow not only as a person, but as a parent.”

Through intensive therapy, participation in AA, and the support of the Drug Court team, Britteny found her footing and a renewed sense of purpose. 

“The relationship with my parents has improved, and I’m now paying my way through life. I’ve made real progress and feel ready to give back and help others on their journey,” she said.

Another recent graduate, Mike, shared that the consistent accountability of drug court played a significant role in his recovery. “For 14 months, I had regular urine tests. That accountability helped me stay committed to getting clean and sober,” he said.

Since entering the program, Mike has experienced a dramatic transformation. 

“My cravings and triggers to use decreased. I started taking better care of my health—lost 45 pounds, developed a fitness routine, and began eating healthier,” he said. 

However, the growth didn’t stop there. Mike also discovered new passions, including public speaking and serving his community. He now volunteers at nonprofits such as Perham 180.

Looking forward, Mike has set meaningful goals. 

“I’m continuing to save money, give back to others, and I plan to register and run a marathon,” he said with pride.

Mike credits much of his success to the program’s safe and supportive environment. “I felt safe and learned to be optimistic, even when things didn’t go my way. I was denied jobs, but I kept going. Now I’m more grateful—and happier—than I’ve ever been.”

These are just two of many powerful stories that reflect the impact of treatment courts in Otter Tail County. National research supports these outcomes, showing that when implemented properly, DWI and drug courts reduce reoffending, save taxpayer dollars, and positively change lives, families, and communities, so we All Rise.

To learn more about Otter Tail County’s Treatment Courts, visit: www.ottertailcounty.gov/public-safety-law/court-related/treatment-court.