Drug Education & Treatment Reducing Recidivism (DETRR) is a smart alternative for certain low-risk drug offenders in Florida. The goal is simple: give people accused only of minor drug possession a way out of the cycle of addiction, arrests, and jail time, and steer them toward treatment and recovery instead.
Who Qualifies for DETRR?
DETRR is not for drug dealers or violent offenders. It’s only for non-violent, low-risk people charged with drug possession. Those who qualify must follow the program rules, stay out of trouble for six months, and complete treatment or education requirements. If they do, their charges may be dismissed, and they get help clearing their record.
Why DETRR Works
Treatment is far more effective and less costly than incarceration. Helping people get sober also helps communities by improving public health and boosting employment, which saves taxpayers money in the long run.
How DETRR Works: Three Levels
✅ Level 1 – Simple Marijuana Possession (30 grams or less)
- Must stay arrest-free for six months
- Encouraged to seek treatment
- Charge dismissed after six months
- Applies only if no other serious charges are pending
✅ Level 2 – First-Time Drug Possession (Non-Marijuana)
- First-time felony possession (except trafficking)
- Must complete drug treatment or education
- Stay arrest-free for six months
- Charge dismissed, even if still in treatment
✅ Level 3 – Low-Risk Repeat Offender
- For people with prior offenses or those not eligible for Levels 1 or 2
- You must be assessed as low-risk
- You may be referred to full Drug Court or community treatment (substance abuse, mental health, cognitive therapy, or social services)
- You MUST stay arrest-free for six months; charges will be dismissed if you remain arrest-free for six months.
Practical Details
- To be eligible, defendants must live in Florida.
- The defendant will need to sign a contract with the State Attorney’s Office.
- Qualifying for Level 3 requires a risk-needs-responsivity assessment in Drug Court.
- After court, the a defendant meets with the Department of Corrections for supervision.
- No monthly check-ins are required, but participants must follow all treatment recommendations and pay any related fees.
The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Please contact a licensed attorney to discuss the details of your case.