Justice Speaks Podcast Episode #55

A Conversation with Robert Mitchell, New Mexico’s State Drug Court Coordinator

Justice Speaks continues its series of interviews with State Treatment Court Associations’ leaders and State Treatment Court Coordinators by interviewing Mr. Robert Mitchell, State Coordinator for Drug Courts in New Mexico.  This episode is sponsored by Reconnect. 

The Journey Begins

Mr. Mitchell’s career path started in Wisconsin, and then took him to Ohio, eventually led him to New Mexico, before entering the criminal justice arena, he worked extensively in faith-based institutions. However, his background in law enforcement, emergency medical services (EMS), and a stint in the Air Force kept him closely connected to crisis management. These experiences equipped him to handle critical situations, including mass school shootings.

The Path to Treatment Courts

His career took a significant turn when he became the Director of the Alternative Sentencing Division for San Juan County, New Mexico. In this role, he oversaw a 28-day jail-based treatment center initially focused on alcohol-related issues. The success of this program prompted its expansion to address the methamphetamine crisis affecting women in the region.  His dedication to rehabilitating individuals caught the attention of the New Mexico Department of Children, Youth, and Families where he was offered and accepted the governor’s appointment to work with long-term confinement facilities and reintegration centers for juvenile offenders. This in turned moved him in the direction of a career with Treatment Courts, aligning with his passion for criminal justice and behavioral health practices.

A Multi-Faceted Role

Mr. Mitchell offers insights into his current role as the state coordinator for Treatment Courts.  He describes the expansion of his team, now comprised of seven dedicated professionals, focused on serving Treatment Courts across New Mexico. Each team member plays a crucial role in ensuring that Treatment Courts have the resources they need to thrive.

He discusses the importance of in-person conferences and their impact on building connections within the Treatment Court community and reflects on past virtual conferences and the valuable interactions they facilitate.

Mr. Mitchell then describes the funding sources for Treatment Courts in New Mexico. He explains the state’s unique approach of allocating a portion of the liquor excise tax distribution to support Treatment Courts, ensuring stable funding even during challenging times.

He then shares his perspective on the greatest accomplishments of his office, highlighting the strength of his team’s expertise and their dedication to the Treatment Court philosophy. He also addresses the challenges faced by professionals in the justice system, who must juggle numerous priorities and expectations.

The Future of Treatment Courts in New Mexico

Looking ahead, Mr. Mitchell envisions New Mexico Treatment Courts as leaders in fostering cooperative efforts to integrate best practices across the justice system.

Finally, He goes on to discuss the shift toward a broader view of therapy within the justice system, emphasizing the importance of addressing individuals’ needs with precision and responsibility.

A Closing Note of Thanks

We wish to thank Mr. Mitchell for joining us on Justice Speaks.  We also wish to thank Reconnect for sponsoring this podcast episode.

Additional Resource

You can watch this interview by going to the Justice Speakers Institutes’ YouTube Channel or by clicking here.