The scene during Friday afternoon’s second anniversary celebration for Clark County’s Community Court was far from a typical day at court. Participants, service providers and county officials shared laughs, tears and hugs.
The emotions came as people reflected on the difference the alternative court has made for those accused of crimes in Vancouver related to homelessness. The court offers those facing low-level charges, such as unlawful camping, the chance to have their cases dismissed if they engage in services.
David Slaugh became choked up at times when he described his struggles with addiction since the age of 18 and bouts of homelessness. A few weeks ago, the now-47-year-old graduated from Community Court. He’s eager, he said, to begin working for the outreach agencies that helped him get off the street and achieve sobriety.
“I stand tall now, for the first time in my life, drug-free, and I’ve got a big support system,” Slaugh said. “I do appreciate this court system, because I’m telling you, it does work.”
When Slaugh finished speaking, he walked back to his seat, where Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle gave him a big hug. He cheered for others as they shared the influence the program had on them.
Clark County District Court Commissioner Erin Priest said presiding over the court is one of her favorite things about her job. She celebrated the dedication of those who complete the program and the web of community they build.
“We have quite a few participants here who are breaking personal or generational cycles,” Priest said. “We have folks who are continuing services on their own when they are not required by the court to do so. They are inspirational, each and every single one of them.”
Priest leaves her traditional black judicial robes behind when presiding over the community court docket. She doesn’t sit on a bench elevated above the participants before her. And she has a conversation with participants in a more informal fashion than she would during a typical court hearing.
Kevin McClure, a Vancouver city attorney, joked that Community Court is the only time he comes to court as a prosecutor hoping all of the cases get dismissed.
“We want people to succeed, and we want them to get the treatment that they need. We want them to get the housing that they need. And then we want to say, ‘Congratulations, you’re a success, and your reward is you don’t have a conviction,’ ” McClure said. “And the whole community benefits.”
