Judiciary Hosts Treatment Court Summit to Address Drug Crisis

Saipan, CNMI – Leaders from across government, healthcare, law enforcement, and community organizations came together on May 15, 2025 for the Judiciary’s inaugural Treatment Court Summit, held under the theme: “From Dialogue to Action: Committing to Real Solutions.” The event marked a pivotal moment in the Commonwealth’s collaborative efforts to combat drug addiction and its far-reaching impacts.

Hosted at Crowne Plaza, the day-long summit served as a forum to circulate insights, data, and stories while strengthening the treatment court system—Drug Court and Mental Health Court Docket—as a critical point of intervention. Attendees included Lieutenant Governor David M. Apatang, Senator Jude U. Hofschneider, members of the 20th Youth Congress, representatives from the Department of Corrections, Department of Public Safety, Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation, Department of Youth Services, and both the local and federal judicial officers, among others.

In his opening remarks, Justice John A. Mangloña emphasized the shared responsibility in addressing substance use disorders: “This summit is not about one sector, one office, or one program,” he said. “Our strength lies in the fact that we’re coming together—bringing different experiences, different tools, and different insights to solve the same challenge.”

Throughout the day, attendees heard candid accounts from partnering agencies and organizations. Drug Court Manager Edward P. Diaz presented statistics on methamphetamine prevalence in the Commonwealth. Customs and Corrections Officers detailed the challenges of intercepting illicit drugs and preventing them from entering facilities, while the Department of Public Safety highlighted its evolving approach to data collection and crime prevention.

Officers from the Division of Customs and Biosecurity listened to presentations from other law enforcement agencies on their strategies for combating drug usage.

Clinical experts Dr. Matthew Nelson, Dr. Michael Chen, and Dr. Nelson Krum addressed the medical and psychiatric complexities of addiction, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive care that addresses co-occurring disorders.

“Events like this are not possible without the support from our fellow government leaders and most especially the dedicated professionals, psychiatrists, counselors, and treatment providers that comprise the treatment court teams,” said Judge Lillian A. Tenorio, Mental Health Court Docket Judge. “The Judiciary works hard throughout the year to stay involved with stakeholders and keep the public informed about the purpose of our treatment courts. As partners, we are all working together to break the cycle of incarceration by providing appropriate care for justice-involved individuals with mental health and substance use disorder needs. The recognition of that collaborative work and the continuing need for it serve to strengthen our collective resolve to honor the dignity of every individual while promoting safety, healing, and long-term recovery."

Drug Court and Mental Health Court Docket staff facilitated the day’s discussions. From left: Program Specialist Jaiden Santos, Caseworker Timothy A. Rabago, Community Supervision Officer Frankie Camacho, Caseworker Dolores Sablan, Drug Court Manager Edward P. Diaz, Compliance Officer Kevin T. Royal, and Caseworker Kimiko Tenorio-Roppul.

Mental Health Court Docket Manager Victoria Matsunaga introduced the Mental Health Court team and its work to stabilize individuals struggling with mental illness and substance use, while Karidat, the Community Guidance Center, and the Substance Abuse, Addiction & Rehabilitation Program presented on therapeutic and preventative services available. The Division of Youth Services and the Public School System also shared how children and teens are impacted by drug usage and what efforts prevent their exposure to drugs and related hardships.

Officer Herman shared his journey through addiction as the keynote speaker.

One of the most powerful moments came from Officer Romeo Herman of the Department of Corrections, who shared his personal recovery journey: “The man you see before you now is no longer the man he once was. It’s a struggle to be addicted. . . There is hope, there is a way out of the darkness. Sometimes we just need a friend to help us see the light at the end of the tunnel. Be that friend.”

The Judiciary also honored community advocate Victorino Cepeda with the inaugural Treatment Court Advocate Award. As a lifelong educator, Cepeda has tirelessly supported treatment-focused justice and individuals seeking help with addiction.

Cepeda accepted a model sakman, crafted by a Drug Court participant, to symbolize his guidance of people in recovery. From left: Judge Lillian A. Tenorio, Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio, Victorino Cepeda, Chief Justice Alexandro C. Castro, and Presiding Judge Roberto C. Naraja.

During the lunch program, the Marianas High School Thespians Club performed a dramatic reading and skit addressing addiction in schools, while Sebastian Tajibmai, winner of Marianas Got Talent, delivered an uplifting performance.

The summit concluded with an opportunity for attendees to share their input on the availability of services from stakeholders. The discussion focused on future actions that treatment courts and partners can take to ensure the viability of recovery assistance in the long- and short-term. “It’s one thing to talk about it,” said Drug Court Manager Diaz, “but it’s another thing to do it.”

2025-PR-08

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 23, 2025

This press release has been prepared by court staff for the convenience of the public. For further information, contact the Supreme Court at Supreme.Court@NMIJudiciary.gov