Calvert Drug Court Marks 10 Years, Graduates Six

On July 24, 2025, the Calvert County Drug Court marked its 10th anniversary with a ceremony honoring six graduates who completed the rigorous program. Held in the Calvert County Circuit Court, the event highlighted the transformative impact of the Calvert County Drug Court, a cornerstone of addiction recovery in Southern Maryland. Each graduate completed at least 18 months of intensive supervision, weekly drug testing, and substance abuse counseling, achieving a minimum of six months of sobriety before graduating.

A Milestone for the Calvert County Drug Court

Since its establishment in 2015, the Calvert County Drug Court has guided 230 individuals to successful completion, offering an alternative to incarceration for non-violent offenders struggling with substance abuse. Administered by Circuit Court Judge Mark S. Chandlee, the program is supported by State’s Attorney Robert Harvey and Sheriff Ricky Cox, whose collaboration ensures participants receive comprehensive oversight and resources. The Calvert County Drug Court emphasizes accountability, requiring participants to engage in regular court appearances, counseling sessions, and community service while maintaining sobriety.

The six newest graduates exemplify the program’s success. Each navigated a structured regimen that included weekly drug tests to confirm abstinence and counseling to address underlying addiction issues. Their achievement of at least six months of sobriety reflects the Calvert County Drug Court’s commitment to fostering lasting recovery. For Southern Maryland residents, the program’s milestone underscores a local solution to the opioid crisis and other substance abuse challenges, offering hope to families in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary’s Counties.

Community Impact Through Service

A hallmark of the Calvert County Drug Court is its emphasis on giving back. Since 2015, participants have contributed over 6,200 hours of community service, with many volunteering at Farming 4 Hunger, a nonprofit based at Serenity Farm in Benedict, Maryland. This organization, which grows fresh produce for food-insecure residents, has been a key partner, allowing participants to support their community while rebuilding their lives. The service requirement not only benefits Southern Maryland but also instills a sense of purpose and responsibility in participants, reinforcing their path to recovery.

The Calvert County Drug Court’s community service efforts resonate deeply in a region where agriculture and local charity are valued. Serenity Farm’s location in Benedict, a short drive from Prince Frederick, makes it accessible for participants and strengthens ties between the court and Calvert County’s rural heritage. The 6,200 hours of service represent tangible contributions, from harvesting crops to distributing food, directly impacting food security in Southern Maryland.

A Model for Rehabilitation in Southern Maryland

The Calvert County Drug Court operates as a voluntary program, offering eligible participants a chance to address addiction while avoiding traditional criminal penalties. Judge Chandlee’s oversight ensures a balance of compassion and accountability, with the court tailoring treatment plans to individual needs. The support from State’s Attorney Harvey and Sheriff Cox reflects a unified commitment to rehabilitation over punishment, a model that has drawn attention from neighboring counties.

For Southern Maryland residents, the Calvert County Drug Court’s 10-year anniversary is a reminder of the program’s role in reducing recidivism and restoring lives. The 230 graduates since 2015 have not only achieved sobriety but also reintegrated into their communities as productive citizens. As Calvert County continues to address substance abuse, the Drug Court remains a vital resource, offering a path forward for those seeking recovery.

The July 24 ceremony, held in the heart of Prince Frederick, celebrated not just the six graduates but the broader impact of the Calvert County Drug Court. With ongoing support from local leaders and community partners like Farming 4 Hunger, the program is poised to continue its legacy of transforming lives in Southern Maryland for years to come.