Big Island Drug Court Holds 57th Graduation Ceremony

Posted on Aug 26, 2021 in Featured News, News & Reports

In the courtroom, two graduates stand on the left and right sides of a table holding a Big Island Drug Court banner (“Drug Court Works”), with Hilo Drug Court Judge Henry Nakamoto on the far right, at the program’s 57th graduation ceremony, 08/05/2021.

Hilo Drug Court Judge Henry Nakamoto congratulates two of the guests of honor at the Big Island Drug Court Program’s 57th graduation ceremony.

The Big Island Drug Court (BIDC) celebrated the achievements of the three members of the 57th graduating class on August 5, at Hale Kaulike Hilo. Each graduate was presented with certificates of commendation and recognition from Governor David Ige, U.S. Senators Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz, and County Council member Ashley Kierkiewicz.

Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert Kim makes remarks from a courtroom podium at the Big Island Drug Court’s 57th graduation ceremony, 08/05/2021.

Third Circuit Chief Judge Robert Kim congratulates the graduates.

Retired Hilo Drug Court Judge Greg Nakamura makes remarks from a courtroom podium at the Big Island Drug Court’s 57th graduation ceremony, 08/05/2021.

Retired Hilo Drug Court Judge Greg Nakamura offered his congratulations to the graduates.

Drug Court is an intensive 18-month program that provides alternatives to incarceration. It assists individuals break from addiction and acquire new skills to improve their lives. The BIDC Adult programs in Hilo and Kona have helped hundreds of women and men get a second chance at life since the programs were initiated in 2002.

Friends of Big Island Drug Court Board member Debbie Maiava Ching, at a courtroom podium, shares her thoughts with attendees at the Big Island Drug Court’s 57th graduation ceremony, 08/05/2021.

Friends of Big Island Drug Court Board member Debbie Maiava Ching, owner of Ken’s House of Pancakes and the Ponds Restaurants in Hilo, offers words of encouragement to program participants and attendees.

For information about how you can become a supporter of the program through the Friends of the Big Island Drug Court, contact the Drug Court Probation office in Hilo at (808) 961-7566, or in Kona at (808) 443-2200.