To the editor:
A recent front-page article in the Herald-Star tells us that the Jefferson County commissioners are looking into the revenues and expenses of our local justice system.
One recent development will no doubt have consequences, not just for balancing the books, but on human suffering. Trinity Health System is in the process of closing its substance abuse and treatment unit. This includes inpatient and outpatient services. The detox unit is also to be discontinued. So cases involving a drug overdose will have to go elsewhere.
I've been present at meetings of the commissioners where crime has been discussed and the drug epidemic always comes up. I worry, not just for the financial health of the court system, but for the well-being of our most vulnerable citizens. They are surely the least of our brothers and sisters.
John Rucki
Amsterdam