Johnson City Day Reporting Center Honors Most Recent Graduate
JOHNSON CITY – This evening, the Tennessee Department of Correction’s Johnson City Day Reporting Center (DRC) held a small ceremony in honor of its most recent graduate of the program. The occasion marked the completion of the three-phase intensive, substance abuse treatment program and a year or more of sobriety for Gary Barnett, the graduate. Since opening, the DRC program has provided tailored treatment to each participant, utilizing evidence-based programming, taking nine to twelve months to complete. Mr. Barnett is the 22nd graduate of the program since integrating with TDOC in late 2017.
“I’ve been in and out trouble most of my life, spending 18 years of it locked up, all because of my addiction,” said Barnett. “This program not only changed my life, it saved it. For the first time in a long time I am clean and sober and can actually say that I am proud of myself. This program works, and I can’t thank the staff here enough for helping me in my journey to recovery.”
Addressing the causes of recidivism is essential to enhancing public safety. In many instances, offenders’ criminal behavior is directly related to a struggle with substance abuse. The DRC program serves to address these issues through daily reporting, comprehensive treatment, and access to resources, all within a model focused on accountability and self-discipline. Reducing recidivism through evidence-based programs is a central element of the Tennessee Department of Correction’s non-negotiable mission to ensure and enhance public safety. Learn more about TDOC’s DRCs by visiting: https://www.tn.gov/correction,
Pictured above: DRC Graduate Gary Barnett With DRC Director Ashton Belcher.