Deputy Attorney General James M. Cole Delivers Remarks at the National Association of Drug Court Professionals Conference

While incarceration is a necessary part of the strategy for ensuring public safety, we know it is not the only answer in every case — especially for the low-level drug offender. If any of us hope to change the behavior of our criminal population – and make our communities safer – we must make the investment to treat individuals with substance use disorders and others in need of help as a part of the criminal justice system.