PSC Annual
Report FY 2022
In
shifting from a maker of laws to an upholder of laws, I feel almost as though I
have stepped through the looking glass.
When I served on the House Judiciary
Committee, I learned about a host of issues affecting Michigan courts and focused
much of my time on pushing for meaningful criminal justice reform. I
also had the privilege of voting on state support of an array of beneficial programs,
including problem-solving courts.
Now
as the new Michigan Supreme Court liaison to problem-solving courts, I get to
view these amazing programs through a whole new lens.
After
reviewing some of the data shared in this report (and past reports), I am
extremely impressed at the success rates of the programs. Year after year, these courts do much more than
solve problems—they save lives.
But
what struck me the most was that these pages are not merely filled with numbers
and milestones; they are also filled with hope and humanity.
When
Chief Justice Clement asked me to take on this role, she spoke passionately
about the people who participate in these programs, as well as the people who
operate them. The common refrain I kept hearing from her was “people.” And that
is what PSCs are all about.
People
who are getting second chances through these life-changing programs.
People
who come to work every day prepared to help guide and lift up participants who,
on any given day, might feel like giving up.
People
who see a need in their community for a program that addresses underlying
issues in certain justice-involved individuals.
People like Andrew, a past graduate of 55th District Sobriety Court
in Mason, who commented about sobriety court:
“It taught me a lot about hope and faith, and gave me the tools to
help other people in recovery. It showed me that there is hope even when I was pretty
hopeless in the beginning.”
As
I continue on my learning curve, I am looking forward to hitting the road and
visiting PSCs across the state. I want to see the people who are affected by
these programs and I want to help ensure that everyone who needs this kind of
help is able to access it.
So
“thank you” to all of the PSC judges, program coordinators, probation officers,
peer mentors, law enforcement officers, attorneys, and counselors who make a
difference every day through their work.
Hope
to see you down the road!