Failure at the Highest Level: Criminal Injustice

The John Thompson case against against the State of Louisiana and the New Orleans District Attorney at the time of prosecution was decided by the U.S. Supreme Court today. The decision was 5-4 and the dissenting Justices are Ginsburg, Sotomayor, Breyer, and Kagan. This ruling by the Supreme Court Justices further limits the ability of a criminal defendant to sue for Brady violations. The case is Connick vs. Thompson (09-571). Read the Opinion (PDF) HERE.


I last discussed the problem of bad prosecutors that hide exculpatory evidence and outright lie in attempt to attain convictions in The Dark Side of the US Criminal Justice System. The entire situation is so unreal to me that I am at a loss for words. That is highly unusual, right? Consider reading the U.S. Supreme Court Opinion linked above – it is interesting even if you're not into law.

Virginia’s School Takes the Use of Any Kind of Substance Seriously

As parents, we rely on schools to protect our kids from the dangers of drugs within their walls. All of the rules and regulations are in place to ensure our kids are in a safe and drug free environment. But for Hayley Russel and her family, the circumstances were different.

The 13 year old student of Rachel Carson Middle School in Fairfax County Virginia, was worried about her acne and bought medicine, erythromycin, a common antibiotic that a doctor prescribed for her skin, to prevent another outbreak. She kept it in her locker and did not think about it but was reprimanded when a school official confronted her. Hayley admitted that it was a mistake but it did not change the outcome. The incident caused a disciplinary process that kept her out of class for more than seven weeks and banned her from appearing on school grounds without official permission. The event turned Hayley's middle school experience into a horrific one. Rumors churned wildly, with false accusations and painful insults about what she did to get into so much trouble. "Preggo," a classmate wrote on her Facebook wall, "Druggie," texted another. The subsequent days were no better. Her parents met with an attorney who took the case to court but were told that Hayley would inevitably have to transfer. Their attorney agreed that this was the only solution.

Hayley is not alone in this undesired situation. Her case follows a pattern in at least 18 other cases in Fairfax: Students are suspended from school for a month, two months, or longer if an appeal is filed. They go to disciplinary hearings expecting unbiased reviews and instead find what they consider a confrontational and accusatorial process.

For Hayley, who is now 14, the experience was not welcoming and she is still shocked over what happened. For some parents in Virginia, it may be a relief to at least know the school takes the use of any kind of substance seriously and are not tolerant of the obstruction of their regulations, for others it may be taking drug abuse prevention a little too far.

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South Carolina Officers Train to Bust Teen Drinking Parties

Officers from several area law enforcement agencies are getting ready for 2011 "Out of their Hands Campaign."

It will be no April Fools Days on April 1 as officers in South Carolina kick-off the campaign of enforcement and education blitz coordinated by The Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS). The campaign is designed to raise awareness of the dangers of underage alcohol use.

South Carolina officers have been trained on how to effectively break-up parties where underage drinking is involved. During a full day of classes, the officers got review lessons on South Carolina law as it relates to alcohol related offenses and juveniles as well as a crash course on the alcoholic beverages are popular among the underage drinking population today.

Officers were introduced to a host of other issues during the mock party exercise from language barriers and “escapees”, to “fire crews” responding to the party location after someone pulled the “fire alarm.”

Through the statewide “Out of their Hands” campaign, South Carolina's Alcohol Enforcement Teams help direct activities aimed at limiting access to alcohol by young people under the age of 21. The campaign emphasizes that it is against the law for anyone under 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages and sends the message that underage drinking can be dangerous.

Cornerstone Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission of Greenwood representative says:“Ultimately we hope to reduce fatalities among youth in regards to risky decisions and alcohol.”

Besides fatalities related to alcohol use, there is also a concern of young adults becoming addicted to alcohol. Most young adults drink because they learn to associate “drinking” with adult behaviors. One drink turns into more drinks. Alcohol use many times become alcohol abuse or addiction, most young adults are unsure as to how to approach the issue. Also most young adults are not well informed about the potential brain damage, as a result of alcohol use, abuse, and alcohol addiction.

If you are a friend or family member of a young adult struggling with alcohol abuse, call now for help.

Reach out to us. For information on our addiction treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237

http://www.inspirationsyouth.com

http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237 http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

The New Highs - Drugs of Abuse

In 2009, colored ecstasy pills started popping up around the country in the shape of President Barack Obama’s head. Those came on the heels of yellow smiley-faced marijuana gum balls appearing at a Howard County school, THC candy bars called “Stoners” marketed underground in California, and turtle-shaped chocolate psychedelic mushrooms in Oregon. Every year, it seems, people think up new ways to get high. According to the feds, below are some unusual drugs the DEA says saw spikes in usage in the past year and others that are making a resurgence.

PURPLE DRANK What is Purple Drank?: Prescription-strength cough syrup combined with lemon-lime soda and pieces of hard candy. Variations include using juice or sports drinks.

Effects of Purple Drank: It’s a sedative and gives users a “woozy” feeling of “swooning euphoria.” The feds say Purple Drank is “highly addictive” and has contributed to overdose deaths, including that of the Texas man widely credited with popularizing the mixture.

Street names: Lean, syrup, Texas tea, purple jelly, purple tonic, sip-sip, player potion, purp and sizzurp.

Rise in Popularity: Used since the 1960s, the mixture has enjoyed a revival as Lil Wayne, Eminem, Kanye West, Fast East Movement and other acts have included references in their music.

Legal Status: With a cough syrup prescription from a doctor, this drink is a combination of legal substances.

KILL What is Kill?: A narcotic, such as heroin, laced with another substance, such as fentanyl, a synthetic opiate, approximately 50 times more potent than heroin.

Effects of Kill: Results in irrational behavior and is extremely dangerous to the user’s health.

Street names: Kill or keel.

Rise in popularity: Used among hard-core junkies drawn in because of its reputation for being more powerful than heroin.

Legal status: Illegal.

BZP What is BSP?: Originally a parasite treatment for cattle, tablets containing the synthetic stimulant drug BZP (N-benzylpiperazine) are often combined with caffeine. BZP is typically pressed onto logo-embossed tablets or shaped into cartoon-character tablets.

Effects of BZP: BZP produces euphoria and cardiovascular effects similar to those of amphetamine, but much less severe. Effects generally last six to eight hours.

Street names: A2, Benny Bear, Benny, Frenzy, Legal E, Legal X, Molly and Nemesis.

Rise in popularity: Law enforcement agencies have reported a spike in usage as the drug is sold as ecstasy to unsuspecting buyers.

Legal status: Illegal in the United States but legal in some parts of Europe.

OPIUM TEA What is Opium Tea?: A tea brewed with various parts of opium poppy plants.

Effects of Opium Tea: Users initially experience a warm feeling and a state of euphoria and sleepiness. At high doses, death can occur through respiratory depression. Effects of the tea begin within 30 minutes and may last up to eight hours. According to medical examiners in several states, five men ingested poppy tea shortly before their deaths.

Street names: Opium tea or poppy tea.

Rise in popularity: Users can find legal ingredients to make the tea at farmer’s markets or on the Internet.

Legal status: Poppy seeds are legal in the United States, but other parts of the plant are illegal. Is your teen abusing drugs? Reach out to us. For information on addiction treatment programs contact:

Teen Addiction Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237

http://www.inspirationsyouth.com

http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Addiction Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237 http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

Pastor in Tennessee Addresses Epidemic Issues of Illegal Drug Abuse

MONROE COUNTY, Tenn., Pastors will take a public stand with a day of prayers in April 2, 2011 to address epidemic issues of illegal drug abuse, prescription drug abuse and their effects on children and families.

Pastor David Cooper’s gathering is inspired by the documentary movie "Appalachian Dawn".

During CCC News interview with Pastor David Cooper, he was asked what has lead him to organize this day of prayer and he answers : "Well, about a year and a half ago God put it upon my heart to combat drugs in east Tennessee. I know so many young people who have been on meth and oxycotton. Many of them have died. I happen to be the pastor that performed the funerals. God put it upon my heart to start praying and fasting about the drug problems in our area. Then the Appalachian Dawn DVD appeared and my wife and I watched it. We decided to show it to our church. After the church saw it, I really prayed hard about the next step. One thing just lead to another and its lead us to where we're at. We're just responding to the call of God, to be obedient to God."

Mr. Cooper has reported that there are other people involved in an operation they call operation P.U.S.H. Together they hope to combat drug abuse and addiction in the area.

If you or someone you know is struggling with drug abuse or addiction and is in need of help, Inspirations Teen Rehab offers a flexible and affordable teen addiction treatment program. Our aim is to treat the whole person, and not just an isolated symptom. During the addiction treatment process we will work with the teen to identify the factors that may have contributed to the prescription drug abuse and addiction – home, friends and medical history. We believe that families have a vital role to play in the recovery process, and each addiction treatment program has a place for family participation, to educate them in the treatment process and to equip them for their role as supporters.

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237 http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

What Motivates Teens to Engage in Prescription Drug Abuse?

A nothing-can-hurt-me attitude, the desire of experience life, experiment with new things along with, many times, peer influence and bad judgment can lead a teen to become addicted to prescription drugs.Ultimately, their desire for getting high outweighs their perception of the risks.

Every day, 2,500 teenagers use a prescription drug to get high for the first time. They're accessing these drugs in the comfort of home where they can easily reach to a cupboard, drawer, or medicine cabinet.

Statistics Show:
• 12 to 17 year olds abuse prescription drugs more than they abuse ecstasy, crack/cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine combined
• 60% of teens who have abused prescription painkillers did so before age 15
• There are as many new abusers age 12 to 17 of prescription drugs as there are of marijuana

Teenagers turn to prescription drugs because they perceive them as less dangerous than illegal drugs because this is after all, a drug that has been prescribed by a doctor. Because of this, teenage prescription drug abuse is on the rise. The good news is, as a parent, you can influence your teen's decision not to use any type of drugs. The majority of teens still report that their parents—not their peers or the media—have the biggest influence on their decision to stay drug-free. Use this influence to talk to your teen about the danger of misusing prescription drugs.

If you suspect your child is abusing prescription drugs, seek professional help and remember these three C's: that 'you didn't Cause, can't Control and can't Cure' your child's problems. But you can and must take charge if you find out your child is abusing prescription drugs. The earlier you act upon your child’s addiction problems the better will be the outcome for your child.

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

Former Cop Frank Carter of Melbourne: Expounding on the Issues

Many have arrived at this blog recently by searching for Frank Carter's name and it is time to expound on the issues and hope that you understand why I consider Carter a bad cop, regardless of inept prosecutors, collusion, or corrupt judges.

Most bad cops are never prosecuted; look how long it took prosecutors in Cook County, Illinois to try Jon Burge for a lousy perjury charge when we all know that he ordered and participated in torturing suspects to obtain confessions. Of course most of those confessions were false, but the defendants still languished in prisons for years. The fact that the farce of a corrupt system cannot manage to prosecute Carter means little to me.

I find it far-fetched and implausible that Brevard County prosecutors couldn't find any complainants that were willing to testify. From what I know there have been hundreds of complaints against Frank Carter over the years, but of course time is an issue and I am not sure of the statute of limitations on official misconduct charges or falsifying official records or documents, so all cases are no longer valid. They ignored this train wreck for years.; probably 20 years altogether or close to it.

The main case that prosecutors used to arrest Carter was questionable. Getting down to the basics here, Frank Carter was accused of making illegal traffic stops and conducting illegal searches. There is no doubt whatsoever that he has done this hundreds, if not thousands, of times in his 20+ year career. To me he is the definition of “bad cop”. He is the same as the Hernando County deputies that did the traffic stop on my son and his friend a couple of weeks ago. He is the same as several Cocoa P.D. officers that have done worse than the Hernando County deputies did to my son in the past five years.

Ever since my son got a driver's license he has experienced illegal traffic stops and illegal searches of any vehicle he drove. We have it down to a system because it happens so frequently. For the most part it has always happened in Cocoa with Cocoa P.D. officers. It has not happened in Cocoa for a couple of years though, not since my visit to the Cocoa Police Department to speak to a supervisor and request records.

On my last trip to Cocoa P.D. (it was far from the first), I encountered an intelligent supervisor. I'm not sure if he was a sergeant or a Lt, but this is immaterial anyway. A nice man that had recently relocated from NY and was attempting to reform the department, and he sure managed to smooth everything over with me. When I enter a police department under such circumstances I am angry, no doubt, but I am also intelligent enough to know that sarcasm with a smirk is the only tool available to me to get my point across.

In this particular traffic stop my son and a friend were pulled-over for no reason and held for 45 solid minutes while Cocoa P.D. waited on a dog to arrive – that dog was busy in Melbourne, as has been the case in past. That dog was probably busy with one of Frank Carter's illegal traffic stops. The officers were told clearly twice that they had no permission to search so instead they waited on a dog. Neat, except that holding a driver and passenger for 45 minutes is also illegal. Of course there was no reason to call a dog and of course the dog didn't find anything.

I was having a discussion with someone the other day about possible reasons that cops target my son. His last name is different so they do not know that he is my son when the siren and lights go on, so it isn't the usual hatred of me. For years it was stickers on the vehicles and the hour of night that he was driving, in my opinion. He has always been into music and had 10+ and closer to 20+ heavy metal band stickers on any car he has driven. He also worked for Papa John's from age 17 forward – first as an insider, then as a driver, and later as a manager. He has always had the latest shift and often didn't get out of work until 2am or 3am, so that is why he would be going to Walmart or driving down the road at that hour. Not everyone is a day person, as those late shift cops should know.

The recent Hernando County stop was different in that my son was in a rental car that was close to brand new, so no stickers. It also happened at 1am on a Saturday night and I do not consider that late.


Back to Frank Carter

The main case that prosecutors used to arrest him was of one Laura Cabrera. Of course I do not know Laura, but if you look at her record she has been charged with drug and drug-related counts more than once. I believe that she even pleaded to a count once. This woman has had a lengthy list of traffic stops, many probably care of Frank Carter. Carter probably found drugs when he illegally searched when he had no right by law to stop her to begin with. The law is the law and if officers like Frank Carter are not going to obey it, why should we expect Laura Cabrera to?

I didn't mention Cabrera's case in my previous posts as I preferred the case of Dienecia Johnson. She never pled to any drug charge and has had too long of a list of traffic stops for no reason. My previous discussion of her traffic stops is clear on why Carter could not have had reason to pull her over to begin with: She was charged with not having her driver's license or registration to show too many times. How in the hell could Frank Carter know that she didn't have either available when he pulled her over? He couldn't and in several cases she was not charged with anything else.

The situation with my son has been similar several times. He was pulled over for no reason whatsoever and a couple of times the offending cop actually created a traffic ticket for an offense that didn't exist to cover his illegal stop and illegal search. In one case the created ticket was for “running a red light” and my son took photos of the intersection, obtained the records of the pull-over, and argued it in court. The judge found him not guilty. I won't bother to explain how turning right on red without stopping at that intersection was absolutely legal, except to say that it had to do with the lane merging and no stop bar. During that stop my son was subjected to an angry Marine Drill Sergeant cop yelling at the top of his lungs throughout (30 solid minutes), throwing my son against the car to search him, and an absolutely illegal search of the vehicle – no permission and no reason. The dog was busy in Melbourne – again probably at one of Carter's illegal stop and search escapades

There are far too many of these bad cops on the road. Something must be done to stop this in our society. If supervisors don't give a fuck, then it is time to get rid of the supervisors with the bad boy cops.

If the Melbourne P.D. takes Frank Carter back they are in collusion with him and advocate criminal behavior. It is easy to look at his traffic stops and know that he doesn't give a rat's ass about following the law. This guy considers himself a superior being that makes his own judgment calls and totally disregards law.

I have so many additional examples of bad cops detaining my son, including two that involve pizza delivery, that this post could go on and on for pages. Perhaps I will bore you with more later, but hopefully I have made my point concerning Frank Carter.

A cop doesn't have to be dealing drugs or raping women to be a bad cop.

PRESCRIPTION PAIN MEDICATION ABUSE IN UTAH

Prescription painkillers overdoses which had cases isolated to adults over 20 years of age is now also a problem for teens in Utah. There are reports of teen prescription drug abuse in Payson and Cottonwood Heights.

Though Utahan health officials claim that the numbers of prescription pill deaths has dropped as far as 12% in recent years; many families are still suffering the detrimental consequences of having a loved one addicted to pain killers. In fact, according to Fox 13 news, 10% of high school seniors reported using prescription drugs on at least one occasion in order to experience hallucinogenic effects.

Many citizens, worried over the problem in their community have reached out to their local healthcare practitioners demanding precise pill dosage, in order to eliminate easy access to the excess numbers of medication left from a prescribed dose. Some have even suggested funding educational programs that instruct people on how and when to properly dispose of their superfluous prescribed pill killers, in order to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. Many families of Utahan victims are now reaching out to the schools in their communities in an attempt to create awareness amongst young teens who may be tempted to succumb to peer pressure and follow this dangerous prescription pill popping fad that has the potential of taking their lives and obliterating the lives of their concerned families.

Many are hopeful that proper public awareness through diverse channels of education are key to decreasing and hopefully eliminating the causalities of prescription pill overdose and usage within the next decade.

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
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All Charges Dropped in Melbourne Bad Cop Case

Police abuse and misconduct is clearly acceptable in Florida. They have proved this time and time again, but many had high hopes that Frank Carter would finally pay his dues for all of his deeds against the motorists and residents in the predominantly Black University Boulevard area of Melbourne, Florida. Folks, it ain't happening and this guy will likely be back in a patrol car with $500K + care of Florida taxpayers in short time.

To Dienecia Johnson: Do yourself a major favor and move out of the Melbourne area. It is highly unlikely that this guy will let this situation go and you could be in real danger. They will probably be handing him his gun back soon. I have encountered too many cops just like him in Florida and they don't let anything go.

I am wondering if Frank Carter has a friend in the State Attorney's Office that cooked-up this entire bullshit scheme to put plenty of taxpayer money in Carter's pockets. Think about it – they wouldn't have made such an arrest of a high profile career cop with no evidence, but then suddenly some evidence was no longer evidence at all. Now there is no evidence whatsoever, they claim, and charges are dropped. Carter can indeed file a false arrest suit and most likely will – he should as they caused him extreme distress and cost him lots of money. Wouldn't you? Because the charges have been dropped he will collect on a false arrest suit.

A person acquitted by jury, such as me, has no such simple ordeal. They claim the jury was stupid until the cows come home.

I know exactly what Frank Carter was and will be once again, but with his behavior sanctioned by the State of Florida this time around.

What do we have here? Inept prosecutors or pal to Frank Carter or a corrupt Brevard County judge? Regardless of which one it is, I am totally disgusted. Read all the bullshit the State Attorney's Office representative stated here: Charges Dropped Against Former Melbourne Cop Frank Carter

Inspirations for Youth and Families Sponsors Writers in Treatment Fundraising Event

Inspirations for Youth & Families (http://www.inspirationsyouth.com/) and the owners Karen Walsh and Chris Walsh was one of the sponsors of this year’s Writers in Treatment Festival of Laughs in Los Angeles, California.

Writers in Treatment (W.I.T.), a non-profit organization founded by Leonard Lee Buschel, Robert Downey Sr., Vernon Scott IV and Heidi Lloyd is an organization that helps writers addicted to alcohol and/or drugs to get effective treatment for their disease.

W.I.T. along with Inspirations for Youth and Families presented its 2nd annual Festival of Laughs on March 8th at 7:30 PM at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles, CA.

At the Festival of Laughs, Writers in Treatment honored Lou Gossett Jr., actor and the author of “An Actor and a Gentleman”, with the “Experience, Strength and Hope Award” for his artistic accomplishments, creative endeavors and carrying the message of recovery to a society struggling with addiction.

The award was presented by Tony Denison, co-star of “The Closer” and star of the groundbreaking series, “Crime Story.”

Special appearance by Joanna Cassidy (Blade Runner, Six Feet Under, Boston Legal, etc.) and legendary comedian Barry Diamond with impressive credits such as “Friends,” “Seinfield,” “Politically Incorrect,” “Curb Your Enthusiasm”. The fun-filled evening was a fund raising event to raise funds to provide addiction treatment scholarships for individuals in need.

By partnering with top tier rehabilitation facilities like Inspirations For Youth & Families and Cove Center for Recovery, Writers in Treatment can provide the highest quality addiction treatment care available in America.

For more information on addiction treatment contact:

Adolescent Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
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Teens in Conrad, Montana Fight Back Against Prescription Drug Abuse

As the number of prescription-drug related deaths increase, Montana's teens are getting involved in spreading the word about what Montana Attorney General Steve Bullock calls an "invisible epidemic."

Research shows that when it comes to prescription drug abuse, Montana is one of the hardest-hit states.

Cynthia Grubb of the Pondera County Health Department noted, "We're the third-highest in the nation, 10% of Montana teens admit using prescription drugs within the last 30 days, it's the drug of choice for 12 and 13 year olds. Some of those things are just things that the health department shouldn't ignore."

Pondera County Health Department is teaming up with students from Conrad High School to raise awareness about the subject.

Brittany Greyn, a junior at Conrad High School, said, "We have taken notice that it is a growing problem amongst teens in Montana."

Brittany noted, "55% of teens can receive the drugs for free, just from...parents or relatives."

Many parents do not realize that their own medicine cabinet can be a source of a variety of drugs for abuse, says Karen Walsh, one of the co-founders of Inspirations.

The first step in helping protect your teens is to speak the same language they do. Knowing the vocabulary surrounding prescription drug abuse can help you take a proactive approach in communicating with your teen and safeguarding their health and safety.

Teenagers turn to prescription drugs because they perceive them as less dangerous than illegal drugs. Because of this, teenage prescription drug abuse is on the rise.

In conversations with your teen about drugs, make sure to include prescription drug abuse and why it's harmful. Tell them that taking prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs without a doctor's approval and supervision can be a dangerous—even deadly—decision. Dispel the myth that these drugs are less harmful than street drugs because they are available through a doctor or at the local drug store.

If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse or addiction and is in need of help, Inspirations Teen Rehab offers a flexible and affordable teen addiction treatment program. Our aim is to treat the whole person, and not just an isolated symptom. During the addiction treatment process we will work with the teen to identify the factors that may have contributed to the prescription drug abuse and addiction – home, friends and medical history. We also believe that families have a vital role to play in the recovery process, and each addiction treatment program has a place for family participation, to educate them in the treatment process and to equip them for their role as supporters.

Looking for a Drug Rehab Center for your Teen?

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs:
1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

Multidimensional Family Therapy for Adolescent Drug Abuse

The pandemic of drug abuse amongst teens is ever growing. Families with drug abusing teens tend to seek therapy as effort to save their child, with little focus on the actual relationship. Multidimensional Family Therapy, or MDFT, is a therapy that engages substance abusing teens and their parents individually while building the relationship between them. According to two National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) randomized trials, this type of therapy has proven to have lasting benefits that extend beyond reduced drug use.

Teenage participants treated with MDFT were studied one year after treatment and were found to have fewer drug – related problems. Their behavior and mental health had also improved more compared to teens treated with CBT. Both teens and parents have separate sessions so the therapeutic process is effective for everyone. In sessions with students, the aim to establish meaningful therapeutic goals, foster motivation, and help the adolescents develop concrete strategies to solve problems and find alternatives to drug taking and delinquency. In their own sessions, parents learn about family management, parent – adolescent relationship, as well as parenting skills. "MDFT is a flexible and individualized treatment system rather than a one-size-fits-all approach," says Dr. Liddle. MDFT has been used for young (11 to 15 years old) and older adolescents and juvenile offenders. It has been applied in clients' homes, community-based clinics, residential treatment centers, and correctional facilities. In a statement to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, Dr. Howard Liddle of the University of Miami, who led the two studies said, “We connect with parents in a way that recognizes their stress and the anger, hopelessness, and even despair they may feel about their child. Then we help parents reconnect emotionally to their child. This renewed caring is instrumental in changing parenting practices.”

Advantages
MDFT and CBT are similar in results. They both aim to provide patients with skill not only to reduce the drug use. But unlike MDFT, CBT focuses on individuals rather than family development. Parents attend the first two sessions. The help their child assess the issues at hand and set goals for recovery. According to NIDA, the conclusion of these trials proved that CBT and MDFT have similar results. In the CBT group, youths dropped cannabis use to 7.5 days from 10 days and MDFT dropped to 7.5 days from 12 days. However in the months ahead, those in the MDFT group fared better. MDFT benefits younger teens as well. The results for MDFT in younger teens showed that participants were more likely to stay in treatment – 97 % in the NDFT group finished counseling as opposed to the 72 % of the CBT group. Dr. Lisa Onken, chief of the Behavioral and Integrative Branch of NIDA's Division of Neuroscience and Behavioral Research says, "This is a very complex treatment, and the more we can figure out the essential ingredients—what is critically important and what is of lesser importance—the better we will be able to implement it in the community."

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or addiction and is in need of help, Inspirations Teen Rehab offers a flexible and affordable teen addiction treatment program. Our aim is to treat the whole person, and not just an isolated symptom. During the addiction treatment process we will work with the teen to identify the factors that may have contributed to the prescription drug abuse and addiction – home, friends and medical history. We also believe that families have a vital role to play in the recovery process, and each addiction treatment program has a place for family participation, Multidimensional Family Therapy, or MDFT to educate them in the treatment process and to equip them for their role as parents and supporters.

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

Bad Cops an Epidemic in the US

A police officer has more power than anyone, including the President of the United States (POTUS). This is a statement that I first read in Marshall Frank's book, Criminal Injustice in America: Essays by a Career Cop. Marshall Frank spent 30 years in law enforcement in Miami and is a retired captain from the Metro-Dade Police Department. He would know. If you are interested in the thoughts of a man that spent 30 years in the trenches, buy the book from Amazon or from: Marshall Frank

From the time I entered this country to date I have encountered so many bad cops that I considered this a U.S. epidemic. Sure, I know that there are some good cops out there; I just drew the justice card and rarely meet any. We all draw different cards in life and mine all relate to justice, or rather injustice.

Most people go through life and never encounter bad cops. This doesn't mean that I did anything wrong and they did everything correct; it means that they didn't draw the justice card in life. Most people remain clueless as to the inner workings of the criminal justice system in the US, though I am not so sure that clueless is a preferred state of mind so I'm happy that I am enlightened regardless of all the problems involved.

I watched a CNN special a few nights ago: Race and Rage: Rodney King 20 Years Later

Rodney King stated that he did forgive the officers that beat him on that unforgettable night in Los Angeles. You may be thinking, why can't you forgive if King can Vicky? Well, I thought about that myself when he made the statement; however, the huge difference is that King's bad cops paid – two officers were convicted on civil rights violations and then King received $million + for his suffering. No one would even let my bad cops get to the point of a trial. None of the bad cops that I have encountered in the last 25 years have paid, yet. So, my state of mind is still that of an angry victim.

I do not know if there is a God and a Heaven and a Hell. I often have doubts and consider believers to be no different than idol worshipers. We all need a crutch in life, but that has never been my crutch. For the first time in many years I prayed to this unknown God the other night. I did this while my son and his friend were in the clutches of the scary and dangerous bad cops referred to in my last post. I do not know if prayer helped or not, but they went from intent to seize the vehicle and arrest my son and his friend on some unknown charges to a short don't come back here again speech. Maybe there is a God after all. Maybe deputy bad-ass #1 had second thoughts for another reason.

A quick search in the Inmate Locator on the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) website reveals that former Chicago police commander Jon Burge is still not serving his sentence. If you are not familiar with the deranged Chicago police commander that ordered and/or participated in torturing over 200 African American men between 1972 and 1991 to force confessions, please read Who is Jon Burge?

Let's not pretend that the charges that Burge was tried on and convicted of reflected his actual crimes against humanity. Burge is the poster child for bad cops.

What ever happened to Lake County Florida Sheriff's Office Detective Ralph D. Fiorenza? The information that I located says that he is retired. He receives a pension for his years of service, no matter that those years included falsifying reports and other criminal acts committed against Mario J. Bassignani and uncountable others, no doubt. This piece of shit, like so many others including Jon Burge, is actually allowed to retire with a pension. Not familiar with Mario Bassignani's story? Read on the website that Mario's brother has had online since 2002: Let Justice be Served

Mario was an engineer at Kennedy Space Center until bad-ass detective Fiorenza entered his life. Mario blew his brains out on the courthouse steps in Lake County, Florida on February 6, 2001. May Mario Bassignani rest in peace and know that if there is a Hell, well, Fiorenza will be going there when he finally croaks.

Bad cops are rarely held accountable for their criminal acts in the US, so is it no wonder that cops like Frank Carter, former Melbourne P.D. officer, and the asshat Deputy Genovese of the Hernando County Sheriff's Office that my son and his friend encountered over the weekend run rampant as they do? No wonder at all as most (defined as more than 50%) of Americans love to see people in cages and suffering.

We live in a country in which most of the population loves to see others suffer, whether guilty or not. Toss that bullshit line innocent until proven guilty right out your proverbial window, because they do not give a rat's ass and consider anyone a cop approaches to question or anyone arrested guilty. We don't need trials here; not in the US. Cops decide innocence or guilt and cops get away with anything and everything in this corrupt nation.

But eventually all bad cops pay for their dirty deeds and crimes against the people.

Overzealous Scary Cops in Hernando County Florida

Last night my son and a friend had a frightening encounter with several (4) Hernando County Sheriff's Office deputies out in the rural area referred to as Ridge Manor, Florida. Either three or four patrol cars arrived at the scene with a total of 4 deputies. My son was driving a Toyota Prius and had the vehicle papers and his valid driver's license to hand the deputy and was puzzled as to the reason for the stop as he is ever so careful not to commit any sort of traffic infraction whatsoever.

Alex has learned to just stay a smart distance from cops and has been taught to understand that a police officer is more powerful than the POTUS. One must fear that a cop could plant drugs or shoot them dead as the result of a simple traffic stop in Florida. The only time I shake is if I am being pulled-over by a cop as there is no telling what will happen next. No one wants to die at the hands of a whacko cop that later claims to have seen a weapon and trust me, it happens too often in Florida. And we aren't even Black. I fear for the Black motorist in this lousy state – refer to my posts on former officer Frank Carter of the Melbourne Police Department.

Alex was driving at a speed of 52 mph and the speed limit before the stop was 60 mph, so he knew the pull-over had nothing to do with speeding. The car is almost new and sure didn't have any light out or faulty equipment issue. Knowing that he had done nothing illegal or even incorrect, he had his friend dial me the minute that he heard the siren and had the brights in his face as the cop turned around to come after him. The second that police vehicle #1 got behind my son, vehicle #2 and vehicle #3 (and possibly a #4) appeared from nowhere and were also behind him with flashing lights on.

Alex pulled to the grassy area on the side of the road right next to the intersection of Croom Rital Rd. and Kettering Rd. in Hernando County, Florida. I was on the phone with his friend at that point. This is exactly what happened next and Deputy #3 and Deputy #4 remained in the background throughout never saying anything to them. [my thoughts and Alex's descriptions are in brackets]:


Unknown Deputy #1: License and registration

Alex: Yes sir. May I ask why we were pulled over?

Deputy #1: We received a complaint of objects being thrown out this window at the vehicle behind you.

Alex: I don't know what you're talking about. We didn't throw anything.

Deputy #1: I'm going to be real with you. I'm a dickhead who doesn't give a fuck about anything. I don't have time for fucking games. If I find out one of you is lying I'm going to seize this vehicle and everything in it and you're both going to jail. The vehicle behind you has a witness, the vehicle behind them, that is willing to write statements. [took driver's license and car paperwork and walked back to his vehicle] [I heard the entire conversation - the deputy was loud, but not screaming as some do]

[within a couple (3) minutes]

Deputy #1: Passenger out of the vehicle. [brought my son's friend to side of deputy's car]. [I heard this].

Friend described: [The deputy asked what happened here and friend told him the story]

What really happened: We were behind a car driving about 15 mph under the speed limit. There was no lane to pass him, but two other vehicles went around both of us. I waited until there was a second lane to pass and went around the slow driver. The driver attempted to run me off the road by speeding-up as soon as he saw I was trying to pass him. I passed him anyway by speeding-up. He was right on my rear and turned on his brights and this went on for about five minutes. He pulled-off and about 10 minutes later I am being pulled-over, but have no idea why.

The friend thought the cop asked him to empty out his pockets and was starting to do this when 3 deputies went for their weapons and 1 grabbed him by the shoulder and pushed him against the car. The deputy told him to place his hands on the car and then patted him down, placing his hands in friend's pockets, and searched him. Scared him to death.

Deputy #1: Mr. -------

Alex [got out of car and walked towards deputy #1]

Deputy #2: GET OFF THE PHONE! [I heard this]

Alex: It's my mother. What...

Deputy #2: GET OFF THE PHONE NOW! You're 18. Hang it up.[I heard this]

[I had instructed my son to ask the deputy's name and where/what police department he was with as my son had no idea where they were specifically at that time]

Alex: Yes sir. [he hung-up on me]

Deputy #1: Your buddy over here admitted everything so you want to be smart as well and go ahead and confess to what happened.

Alex: [repeated story of what actually happened]

Deputy #1: Do you have any weapons, guns, drugs, hand grenades [?] paraphernalia?

Alex: No sir.

Deputy #1: PUT YOUR HANDS ON THE CAR! [deputy starts going through Alex's pockets and searching him and looked through his wallet]

Deputy #1: Do you have any drugs, weapons, guns, paraphernalia, hand grenades, or dead bodies [?] in the vehicle? So then I have permission to search, right? [exact quote]

Alex: Yes sir.

Deputy #1: Turn around and face my partner. [Alex no longer had any visual of vehicle] [deputy searched for about 4 minutes]

Deputy #2: [starts asking both Alex and friend questions]. [He pointed at a vehicle and asked both at the same time if they recognized it and both responded “no it doesn't look familiar”.

Deputy #2: What are you doing way out here?

Alex: Visiting a friend.

Deputy #1: [pulls out posters and flyers from back seat]

Deputy #2: Why do you have all of those?

Alex: I do some promoting for Club Firestone.

Deputy #1: [walks to his vehicle] You might want to stay in Merritt Island boys and don't come around here again. We are a bunch of fucking pricks who don't give a shit and will cause you some fucking problems. [Deputy threw Alex's driver's license in the grass]

Alex: [we got back in our vehicle and noted Deputy #1 walked to the vehicle that we couldn't identify].

So what in the hell is going on in Hernando County? Apparently they sure do not want anyone that doesn't live there entering the area. My son has had many traffic stops for no reason whatsoever, but none as scary as this one because they really do not know the area at all and even though he has met cops that were screaming like Marines throughout the encounter, they do not normally threaten to seize a vehicle and take the driver and passenger to jail – this is the unique issue here. Of course the search demand was because they expected to find drugs.

I have since dialed the non-emergency number for the Hernando County Sheriff's Office and the operator was helpful. She stated that the deputy that made the stop (deputy #1) is Deputy Genovese. She was unable to locate any information for the other deputies or did not offer the information if she did.


To Deputy Genovese with the Hernando County Sheriff's Office:

I have taught my son to always fear cops as truly you are more powerful than the POTUS and capable of absolutely anything. You prove my point. I also taught him to never give a police officer permission to search, no matter that there is nothing illegal or even incorrect in the vehicle. However, when I heard your threat of seizing the vehicle and taking them both to jail, I knew (from your own words) that you are indeed a total prick capable of anything and since we all knew there was nothing illegal in the vehicle, I told my son to agree to any search prior to him hanging-up the phone.

This is the United States and no one should be coerced into a search and threatened as you did to these two late last night (1am). Do you think you own Hernando County? Do you believe that you actually have the authority to tell any motorist to never return to Hernando County? Guess what prick – you don't own shit and I'll drive through Hernando County any fucking time I want to.

My son really feared that you would plant something in the vehicle (drugs). Why did you instruct him to turn around and face your partner so that the vehicle was no longer in his line of vision? That is something I have never run into and it shouldn't be considered legal.


I will offer a short scenario of the events to follow if you had taken them to jail last night:

Of course I would attempt to bond them out immediately, but not knowing anything about how it all works in Hernando County, well, I may or may not have been successful. No matter what, I would have them out on Monday before the morning was over. Each of them would then be filing a false arrest suit against you, the unknown deputies that joined you, and the Sheriff of Hernando County.

This is not a lawsuit worthy encounter and this is the last you'll hear of us Deputy Genovese, but someone needs to take some of your power away. Cops like you are why I have instilled it in my son's mind that he should never trust any cop anywhere for any reason. You really are a fucking prick – you said it.

Bradley Manning's New Plight

According to the Bradley Manning Support Network, Brad now faces the death penalty for “aiding and abetting the enemy,” and we all must wonder what fucking enemy they're referring to. Read the list of charges added on March 1, 2011: Bradley Manning Facing Death Penalty Under New Charge of “Aiding the Enemy”

The US Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC) has added 22 additional counts in the Manning case. They claim that prosecutors do not intend to recommend the death penalty, but I do not buy it for a NY minute. These people want Brad Manning dead. Even his fellow service members want him dead. At least 50% of Americans have such an unreal level of ignorance that they also want him dead. At the very least, they will accept life in a United States Supermax prison – the prison of all prisons with no contact with the outside world ever.

And what enemy did he allegedly aid IF he is the Wikileaks leaker? No crap here – I read through many of the released documents and they weren't all that important. Can they actually do this because there is a feeling of embarrassment over their fake War on Terror? I am afraid that the answer is yes, they do whatever the hell they want. If you voted for Bush in 2000 or in 2004, you have succeeded in assisting these war happy, money-grubbing kooks ruin this country beyond any possibility of repair.

There is little left to say except if you have not donated to Bradley Manning's defense fund, please do so when possible. If you have donated, please appeal to your colleagues and friends. Don't desert this guy as his fellow soldiers have. The only good place to donate is through the Bradley Manning Support Network – you will see the big DONATE button on the website.

Effects of Heavy Marijuana Use on Learning and Social Behavior

A study of college students has shown that critical skills related to attention, memory, and learning are impaired among people who use marijuana heavily, even after discontinuing its use for at least 24 hours. Researchers compared 65 "heavy users," who had smoked marijuana a median of 29 of the past 30 days, and 64 "light users," who had smoked a median of 1 of the past 30 days. After a closely monitored 19- to 24-hour period of abstinence from marijuana and other illicit drugs and alcohol, the undergraduates were given several standard tests measuring aspects of attention, memory, and learning. Compared to the light users, heavy marijuana users made more errors and had more difficulty sustaining attention, shifting attention to meet the demands of changes in the environment, and in registering, processing, and using information. These findings suggest that the greater impairment among heavy users is likely due to an alteration of brain activity produced by marijuana.

Longitudinal research on marijuana use among young people below college age indicates those who used marijuana have lower achievement than the non-users, more acceptance of deviant behavior, more delinquent behavior and aggression, greater rebelliousness, poorer relationships with parents, and more associations with delinquent and drug-using friends.

If your teen is addicted to marijuana please seek help. Effective treatment of marijuana addiction, like all drug addictions, requires personalized treatment plan that not only addresses the specific drug involved but the addicted person's personality and circumstances of use.

Choosing a teen marijuana rehab treatment facility, involves the understanding of the facility’s personalized teen oriented rehabilitation program and how it takes into account the developmental needs of the teens. It is not uncommon for teens with drug or alcohol problems to be dealing with some type of mental issues too. The facility of choice should be able to treat those mental health issues as well.

Another important part of teen’s addiction treatment is addressing his or her educational needs. It is crucial to minimize the impact of treatment on the child’s education and his chance of graduating from high school, while away from home in the treatment center. For this reason, specialized adolescent teen rehab facilities, provide educational program alongside the addiction treatment.

Concerned about your teen abusing marijuana. Have questions?

Looking for a Drug Rehab Center for your Teen?

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com/
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com/

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs:
1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com/

What treatments are effective for cocaine abusers?

There has been an enormous increase in the number of teens seeking treatment for cocaine addiction in the last few years. Treatment providers in most areas of the country, except in the West and Southwest, report that cocaine is the most commonly cited drug of abuse among teens after marijuana and prescription drugs. The majority of teens seeking treatment smoke crack, and are likely to be poly-drug users, or users of more than one substance. The widespread abuse of cocaine has stimulated extensive efforts to develop treatment programs for this type of drug abuse. Cocaine abuse and addiction is a complex problem involving biological changes in the brain as well as a myriad of social, familial, and environmental factors. Therefore, treatment of cocaine addiction is complex, and must address a variety of problems. Like any good treatment plan, cocaine treatment strategies need to assess the psychobiological, social, and pharmacological aspects of the patient's drug abuse.

Many families have overcome the plague of excessive teen drug abuse in their home. When their children have successfully completed treatment they become focused in their academics again, and often go on to attend college which would have been otherwise impossible the way things were going. Sobriety will bring the passion back into your child's life, and help them to achieve the goals that are important to them. Treatment will also give your child all the tools and support they need to live a life free of drug dependence and addiction.

Concerned about your teen abusing cocaine. Have questions?

Looking for a Drug Rehab Center for your Teen?

Reach out to us. For more information on our treatment programs contact us:

Teen Treatment Programs: 1-888-757-6237 http://www.inspirationsyouth.comhttp://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Young Adults and Adults Treatment Programs: 1-888-387-6237
http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com

Teen Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment

Trauma Resolution is a special service at Inspirations. Some trauma is part of almost all of our lives. However, the symptoms of unhealed trauma include the following:

• Use of mood altering drugs, alcohol or compulsive behavior to “block out” troubled emotions, along with a chronic relapse pattern for some addicts.

• Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, or unworthiness.

• Social isolation and patterns of self-neglect; ie, ignoring health needs.

• Over-reaction to current incidents.

• Under-reaction or emotional numbness.

• Attraction to or feelings of indebtedness to people who are dangerous, explosive or shaming.

Inspirations staff is especially committed to addressing trauma related problems during treatment. Often clients are emotionally or "spiritually wounded” by past experiences. Sometimes this is real and sometimes it is perceived…regardless, to the patient these memories are very real. This “wounding” can continue to influence choices and behaviors during our adult years. As part of the trauma treatment process, we provide intensive Trauma Healing Workshops. In these workshops, each teen is assisted in recognizing past significant events and traumatic experiences and then in reframing these memories to a healing context. Deeply held, unresolved feelings are faced and expressed within a structured protective environment. Following this workshop, teens often report deepened motivation to continue with the process of recovery.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is one of the causes of problem teen behaviors, chaos in the family due to acting out teens, and teen drug and alcohol addiction. Recognizing and dealing with past trauma, allows the teen to focus on the process of changing behaviors, improving copings skills, finding solutions to problems, and working through the process of addiction recovery. Soon the teen recognizes self worth, self-integrity and hope. The recognition of trauma and treatment process is possible through an environment of trust, understanding and mutual support.

Inspirations Teen Rehab is a quality treatment program for teen post traumatic stress disorders, which may include medication, psychotherapy, narrative therapy, and solution focused therapy, as a preferred treatment method.

Visit Inspirations web site for more information on teen Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment and teen behavior treatment programs.

Addiction Treatment for Teens: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com/http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com/

Addiction Treatment for adults and young adults: 1-888-387-6237 http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com[/b]

Adolescent Drug Rehab in Kansas

Adolescents face many unique problems. Inspirations addiction treatment program allows the adolescent to work through many emotional conflicts within the safe boundaries of our facility. Adolescents move through levels and are assisted in developing living skills, interpersonal skills and relapse prevention skills. In addition to the regular program, adolescents attend special workshops designed to meet their needs and attend on-site tutorial services to help them reach their educational goals. The setting at Inspirations is designed for our Adolescent Program by allowing room for exploration, meditation, and activities geared toward the high energy level of teens.

Inspirations program provides treatment for adolescent patients whose addictive disease, emotional and behavioral problems prevent adequate functioning in a less restrictive setting. Adolescents present with a variety of problems related to chemical dependency. It is the philosophy of the staff at Inspirations that these behaviors are symptoms of deeper problems that may include difficulties in the emotional life of the adolescent and in his/her family and peer group. This philosophy promotes the provision of a secure, structured environment to address chemical dependence, inclusive of these difficulties while encouraging independence and self esteem for the adolescent. It further promotes that every effort be made to involve the family in an intensive family program, as all members of the family are adversely affected by chemical dependency.

PROGRAM SERVICES, TREATMENT TEAM AND TREATMENT PLANNING PROCESS

The multidisciplinary treatment team is led by licensed therapists and is composed of master level mental health counselors and social workers, addiction therapist, nursing staff, recreational therapist, and educational staff. All treatment is overseen by a board certified adolescent psychiatrist.

Inspirations treatment team meets twice a week and is responsible for developing, implementing and monitoring the course of treatment for each patient. The team develops comprehensive treatment plan that is individualized and meets all the needs of the patient. The plan also includes discharge criteria as well as aftercare plans. Parents, guardians and referral agencies are critical components of the treatment and aftercare process and their participation is highly encouraged. The patient is also an integral part of the planning process and may at times be included in the team meeting.

If your teen is abusing drugs reach out to us. We at Inspirations Teen Rehab understand the unique challenges of being a parent. If you have any questions, please know that we are here to provide you with support and guidance, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We welcome the opportunity to answer your questions free of charge about teen drug rehab, teen substance abuse, adolescent addiction, teen intervention, teen behavior, teen depression or other related matters.

Addiction Treatment for Teens: 1-888-757-6237
http://www.inspirationsyouth.com
http://www.inspirationsteenrehab.com

Addiction Treatment for adults and young adults: 1-888-387-6237 http://www.covecenterforrecovery.com