Codington County Bolsters Recovery and Justice Initiatives Through RESTART Program
- Steve Jurrens
- Feb 18
- 4 min read
Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - In a comprehensive update on the region's efforts to combat substance use and streamline the justice system, Codington County officials recently highlighted the significant strides made by the RESTART initiative.
Operating under the umbrella of Codington Connects, RESTART is leveraging federal resources and local partnerships to build a safer, more supportive community for individuals transitioning out of the justice system.
A Million-Dollar Commitment to Recovery
The backbone of these expanded services is a $1 million federal COSSUP grant (Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program) awarded by the Department of Justice. This three-year grant has allowed the county to hire specialized staff, such as Angie Collignon, to oversee initiatives specifically designed to support individuals with substance use disorders who are involved in the legal system.
"This grant focuses on how we can support people involved in the justice system with substance use disorder," explained Sara Foust, a board member for Codington Connects. The program relies on a vast network of partners, including the Human Service Agency, local law enforcement, the judicial system, and organizations like Brothers and Sisters Behind Bars.
Harm Reduction and Rapid Response
One of the most immediate impacts of the grant is the Post-Overdose Response Team (PORT). Developed in collaboration with Emily’s Hope in Sioux Falls, the team is activated whenever an individual enters the emergency room following an unintentional overdose.
A critical component of PORT is the distribution of Naloxone (Narcan). To date, over 800 units have been distributed via free, anonymous "Naloxone boxes" located at the Watertown Library and the local ER. These efforts are supported by peer specialists like Jessica Cooper, who leverages her nearly ten years of sobriety to connect with victims and their families in their most vulnerable moments.
Success in Adult Diversion
Beyond emergency response, the county is seeing remarkable success in its Adult Diversion Program, which launched in July 2025. The program boasts a 90% completion rate, with 84 individuals successfully avoiding a permanent criminal record.
The program primarily targets young adults (ages 18–20) facing low-level offenses like underage drinking or possession of controlled substances. Participants must complete prevention classes and community service to provide a path to productivity rather than incarceration.
Stability Through Housing and Community
Officials emphasized that recovery is nearly impossible without a stable environment. Through partnerships, the county has provided over 2,100 nights of sober transitional housing. Residents in these programs receive intensive case management to help secure social security cards, birth certificates, long-term housing, and employment.
To further humanize the recovery process, RESTART has launched a massive social media campaign through Production Monkeys, featuring the stories of six local individuals in recovery. This campaign has reached over 250,000 "touches" on Facebook and Instagram, helping to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction in Watertown.
Looking Ahead: Pre-Trial Services and Community Support
The county is currently preparing to launch Pre-Trial Services, utilizing a Public Safety Assessment (PSA) tool to help judges make informed bond decisions. This tool assesses risks, such as failure to appear in court or the likelihood of reoffending, while also offering voluntary support services, including food and medical assistance, to defendants before trial.
To continue funding these vital initiatives, Codington Connects is hosting a Murder Mystery Dinner fundraiser from February 19–21, 2026, at Second Street Station. Tickets are $40, with proceeds benefiting the 45+ partner organizations that make the county’s recovery network possible.
2025 Highlights
· Adult Diversion: 84 individuals referred; 90% completed the program, avoiding court involvement while contributing 196 hours of community service valued at $2,322.60.
· Sober Housing: Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars provided 2,157 nights of housing to 34 individuals transitioning from incarceration.
· Case Management: 32 residents received 287 sessions supporting medical care, transportation, employment, and basic needs.
· Overdose Response: More than 800 naloxone units distributed, and the new Post-Overdose Response Team (PORT) launched to support individuals within 24–72 hours of an overdose.
· Peer Support & Recovery: 26 individuals received 190 peer support sessions, and 47 sober-social events generated 1,950 engagements across the community.2025 Highlights
· Adult Diversion: 84 individuals referred; 90% completed the program, avoiding court involvement while contributing 196 hours of community service valued at $2,322.60.
· Sober Housing: Brothers & Sisters Behind Bars provided 2,157 nights of housing to 34 individuals transitioning from incarceration.
· Case Management: 32 residents received 287 sessions supporting medical care, transportation, employment, and basic needs.
· Overdose Response: More than 800 naloxone units distributed, and the new Post-Overdose Response Team (PORT) launched to support individuals within 24–72 hours of an overdose.
· Peer Support & Recovery: 26 individuals received 190 peer support sessions, and 47 sober-social events generated 1,950 engagements across the community.
