Bahamas Department of Correctional Services Drug Challenge Program

PRINCIPAL CORRECTIONS OFFICER SOPHIA ALCIME (PROGRAMME COORDINATOR)

The Bahamas Department of Correctional Services Drug Challenge Program commenced in May 2012.  The objective of the programme was to provide a therapeutic and change oriented environment for sentenced inmates with drug dependence.  The programme facilitates 20 inmates at a time and for duration of 9 to 12 months.  Since implementation, a total of forty seven (47) male participants were in enrolled, with only 28 or 60% of participants successfully completing the program between 2012 and 2016. The course includes six (6) components; Orientation, Rational Thinking, Lifestyle Balance, Decision Making, Living with others and Transition Stage.
 

Inmates are selected based on recommendation of the Classification Board which is responsible for sentence planning. The Board considers the inmate’s history of substance abuse, offence committed as a result of drug abuse, inmate disciplinary tribunal convictions for use of illegal drug and alcohol substances, educational level, a minimum of 3 years remaining in sentence and a signed agreement of programme participation.  Presently, the programme is facilitated by 5 correctional officers; 3 volunteers and 1 contractual worker.    
 

Corrections Officers 
C/Sgt. Sophia Alcime (Drug Rehabilitation Challenge Drug Programme Coordinator), 
C/Cpl. Bradley Strachan (Drug Program Facilitators/Dorm Managers),

Government Workers 
Mr. H. Brown & Mr. Harris-Smith (Substance Abuse & Drug Education Facilitator), 
Nurse Adrina Russell (Public Health Authority)

Contractual Worker
Mr. Reno Brennen (Drug Addictionist & Program Facilitator).