Young Addict Grateful For Chance To Stay Clean In Drug Diversion Program
BOSTON (CBS) – John has, or maybe had a problem.
"Yes. I still say, even though I'm sober right now, that I am addicted to drugs," when asked if he was addicted to drugs.
Related: Essex County Drug Diversion Program Hopes To Curb Opioid Epidemic
The 19-year-old was charged last month in Lynn District Court with drug possession with cocaine, mushrooms and other items.
Now he is trying to get clean through the Essex County Adult Diversion Program, administered by Project Cope.
"It is difficult. I have to surround myself with nothing but beneficial things and fill my time with nothing that can hurt me and my sobriety," he tells WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens.
If he completes the treatment program the charges will be dropped and John will have no criminal record.
"I think I'm one of the luckiest people on earth," John said. "I tell my friends the charges I got, and the consequences I have. They're jealous of me. I'm so grateful. That's why I'm jumping into this diversion program so much. Because I'm very grateful. I thought I would be doing time."
John's goal is a simple one.
"My goal is to get sober and stay sober," he said.
Because of the program's structure, John is confident he can succeed.
"It's kind of like someone watching over you to make sure you're doing the things I want to do myself. It's almost like I'm glad I got arrested," John explained.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Carl Stevens Reports
