Carlton County Recovery Court Celebrates Graduations

The treatment program helps offenders with substance use disorders and mental health issues

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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The Carlton County Recovery Court in Duluth, Minnesota celebrated two graduations from its program on Thursday. The recovery court works to rehabilitate offenders with substance use disorders or mental health issues by collaborating with volunteer attorneys, law enforcement, and treatment providers, rather than incarceration.

Why it matters

Recovery courts aim to take a more compassionate and effective approach to the justice system by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior through treatment and community support, rather than just punishing offenders. This can lead to better outcomes for participants and the broader community.

The details

The Carlton County Recovery Court program typically lasts 15 to 24 months. The Sixth Judicial District in Minnesota has eight different treatment courts, each with a team of professionals that collaborate weekly to help participants succeed in the program.

  • The Carlton County Recovery Court graduations took place on Thursday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Steve Hanke

Presiding Judge of the Carlton County Recovery Court.

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What they’re saying

“Recovery Court works to help offenders who experience substance use disorders or mental health issues by collaborating with volunteer attorneys, law enforcement and treatment providers to rehabilitate rather than incarcerate.”

— Steve Hanke, Presiding Judge (wdsm710.com)

What’s next

The Carlton County Recovery Court will continue to hold weekly hearings and provide treatment and support services to help participants successfully complete the program.

The takeaway

Recovery courts offer a more compassionate and effective approach to the justice system by addressing the root causes of criminal behavior through treatment and community support, rather than just punishing offenders.