Wyoming Drug Court Receives Money to Increase Participation

LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — A Wyoming drug court plans to use grant money to more than double its treatment program's enrollment.

The Laramie Boomerang reported Thursday that Albany County Drug Court plans to raise participant numbers from 17 to 40 by October.

A supervisor says the program has received about $1.5 million from federal and state agencies.

Court officials say the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provided about 80% of funding in a five-year grant.

Officials say the state health department awarded the remaining amount in an 18-month grant that will not always be available.

The court provides treatment as an alternative to jail time for people arrested on drug and alcohol charges.

Officials say money has been used to hire a case manager, provide long-term treatment and support patients' expenses.