From the Herald-Citizen
The judge who not only brought drug recovery courts to Putnam County but also to the state of Tennessee officially retired his duties in the 13th Judicial District last week.
Nashville Criminal Court Judge Seth Norman presided over his last drug recovery court graduation in the district Thursday night, handing over the leadership role to Putnam Criminal Court Judge Gary McKenzie.
Two new graduates of the drug recovery and veterans treatment courts, along with their families, other successful graduates, law enforcement officials, judges and the Tennessee Supreme Court chief justice gathered at the Putnam County Justice Center to recognize Norman’s work.
“Two people are completing the program tonight,” Norman said. “It’s not an easy program. It’s not unusual for people to ask to go back to jail because it’s easier than this. It takes about 90 days for people to understand that they can do something about their addiction.”
“I did not know what I signed up for,” said Kozzi Cole, who was facing seven years in prison before completing drug recovery court. “But it’s been worth it.”
Christopher Modglin completed the veterans treatment court.
“I was raised into addiction,” Modglin said. “I never thought I would be clean, but I’m clean two years today. I can’t believe I’m clean today. I’m sitting here — a living miracle.”
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