On March 9, 2026, the Southeast Nebraska Adult Drug Court held a graduation ceremony at the Saline County District Courthouse in Wilbur, with Judge David Bargen presiding. The event’s featured speaker was Justin Antons of Directions Counseling in Beatrice.

Other team members in attendance included Shaylene Smith, Drug Court defense attorney with Kalkwarf & Smith Law Offices, LLC; Braden Dvorak, Drug Court prosecutor with the Gage County Attorney’s Office; Officer Tony Lytle, law enforcement liaison with the Saline County Sheriff’s Department; Nichole White, treatment provider with Blue Valley Behavioral Health; and probation staff.

Graduation represents a meaningful milestone for participants who have successfully completed an intensive program centered on substance use treatment, close supervision, and personal accountability. Adult Drug Court programs typically last at least 20 months and provide participants with the tools and skills needed to build and sustain lives free from drug and alcohol dependence.

Through the integration of comprehensive treatment and consistent judicial oversight, Drug Courts support individuals in their recovery journeys while promoting lasting rehabilitation. Adult Drug Courts offer an alternative to traditional case processing for eligible nonviolent individuals with substance use disorders, using a specialized, collaborative team approach within the existing court system.

These programs aim to reduce recidivism and substance use while strengthening public safety. They employ evidence-based strategies such as validated risk and needs assessments, timely and individualized behavioral health treatment, frequent and random drug testing, structured incentives and sanctions, and access to a broad range of rehabilitative services designed to support long-term success.

For additional information, please contact: 

Chris Reece, Drug Court Coordinator

Phone: (402) 821-7114         Email: christina.reece@nejudicial.gov