The Douglas County Young Adult Court held a graduation ceremony on February 17, 2026, at the Douglas County Courthouse in Omaha. Judge Shelly Stratman presided over the event, which recognized a graduate who completed an intensive program combining mental health treatment, community supervision, and personal accountability. The graduate’s achievement was celebrated by family and peers.
Young Adult Drug Courts offer an alternative to traditional case processing for eligible nonviolent individuals with substance use disorders. These courts operate within the judicial system using a team-based approach focused on rehabilitation and accountability. Their main objectives are to reduce repeat offenses and substance use while promoting public safety. The courts employ risk and needs assessments, individualized behavioral health treatment, regular drug testing, incentives and sanctions, as well as access to support services to help participants achieve long-term recovery.
The State of Nebraska Judicial Branch manages court facilities throughout the state to ensure public access (official website). It operates across 18 judicial districts that cover both urban and rural regions (official website). The branch also engages communities through educational initiatives and resources on topics such as guardianship and mediation (official website).
For more information about the program or the graduation ceremony, Rob Owens serves as the Problem-Solving Court Coordinator and can be contacted by phone at 402-444-4187 or via email at rob.owens@nejudicial.gov.
Photo: Judge Shelly Stratman with graduate.
