6 graduate from Drug Court program

Six individuals, bottom row from left—Jashlie Reyes, Diego Pinaula, Sonny Vicente Camacho, Gorjonny Camacho, In Jun Cho, and Carrie Ada—graduate from the CNMI Drug Court program in a ceremony at the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan. (KIMBERLY B. ESMORES)

The Superior Court Drug Court program honored six individuals yesterday for fulfilling all the requirements needed to graduate from the program.

In celebration of Treatment Court Month, the CNMI Drug Court program held a graduation ceremony for the six newest graduates at the Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan. The six are Carrie Jane Ada, Gorjonny Camacho, Sonny Vicente Camacho, In Jun Cho, Diego Pinaula, and Jashlie Reyes.

Many were moved to tears following a speech from Reyes, a mother of six who has since turned her life around since entering the program back in September 2021.

“Every day was a struggle. Some days were harder than others, while some were bearable. It was definitely a struggle I didn’t know if I could overcome. But being honest and accepting the reality was the first step toward change,” she said.

Reyes shared that the program helped her gain control of her life again, one day at a time. “One of the greatest things I learned during the program was to be smart and not strong. I realized that being strong is not the key. Making smart decisions and choices, being honest with myself, and thinking about the consequences of my actions is what has helped me to move forward with my sobriety,” she said.

Today, Reyes is a program assistant at the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. and is working toward a bachelor’s degree in social work.

“All the things I’ve said and all the tears I’ve cried, it was all worth it. Through the program, I was able to get a degree, get a job, and put a roof over my family’s head. Today is only the beginning of a beautiful life. [Drug Court] helped me blossom into the flower that has long been wilted. I’ve been shown light and the importance of loving myself first,” she said.

When asked how she felt after graduating, Reyes said she feels free.

“It’s a really wonderful feeling. I’m finally free now. But the best part is now being able to be there for my six kids,” she said.

Reyes also shared some words of encouragement to those who need treatment, whether it be due to addiction or mental health issues.

“If you’re struggling with drug abuse or mental health issues, reach out and speak out. We have a lot of resources available in the CNMI and you just need to ask,” she said.

Following the graduation ceremony, acting governor David M. Apatang signed the proclamation designating May as CNMI Treatment Court Month.