On February 13, 2026, the Northeast Nebraska Adult Drug Court held a graduation ceremony at the Madison County Courthouse. The event was presided over by Judge Mark Johnson, with retired District Court Judge James Kube also in attendance. Judge Kube had previously overseen many of the graduates’ hearings during their participation in the program.
The ceremony marked the successful completion of a program that combines behavioral health treatment, community supervision, and personal accountability for its participants. These efforts are part of a broader initiative within Nebraska’s judicial system to address substance use issues among nonviolent offenders.
Drug courts, sometimes called problem-solving courts, provide an alternative route through the justice system for individuals facing substance use challenges. While they operate within the traditional court framework, these courts employ a collaborative approach to address underlying causes of criminal behavior such as addiction and repeat offenses.
The mission of drug courts is “to reduce repeat offenses, enhance public safety, and support long-term recovery through effective treatment.” This goal is pursued using evidence-based practices including risk and needs assessments, personalized treatment plans, frequent drug testing, and a structured incentive and sanction system. Participants are also offered access to rehabilitative services aimed at helping them build stable lives.
The State of Nebraska Judicial Branch oversees programs like this across its 18 judicial districts covering both urban and rural areas. The branch operates as a unified judicial system managing appellate and trial courts throughout the state. It maintains court facilities statewide to ensure public access and delivers justice with integrity while supporting community engagement through educational outreach efforts such as traveling oral arguments at schools and resources on guardianship and mediation (https://nebraskajudicial.gov/).
For more information about the Northeast Nebraska Adult Drug Court or its programs, contact Matthew McManigal at 402-371-8568 ext. 233 or via email at matthew.mcmanigal@nejudicial.gov.
Photo (L to R): Graduate David, Retired Judge James Kube, Defense Attorney Michael Moyer, graduate Kaitlyn, and Judge Mark Johnson
