Building a bridge to recovery

Griffith successfully completed the first phase of Bridges, a three- to four-month intensive program which includes almost daily drug testing, weekend phone-ins and drop-in visits. Last year, more than 5,000 drug tests were conducted, with 99 percent testing drug free. But, perhaps the most anxiety-laden requirement of the program is to stand in court before Presiding Judge Mark Forcum or Judge Barbara Mallach for a monthly review.

"It's nerve-racking to go to court once a month," said Mary, 50, a recovering alcoholic who was convicted of drunk driving. She declined to give her real name and has been in Bridges for four months.

"But Judge Mallach has a sense of who I am. It's given me an understanding of the criminal justice system; not that I needed that," she added, wryly.

Two days after Forcum's favorable review, Griffith was fatally stabbed Sept. 17 in San Francisco after a Giants game. Griffith's death visibly affected those associated with Bridges, including Forcum who faltered slightly when he recently spoke of Griffith. Forcum said the situation was "enormously sad."

Forcum said he sees his role as a motivator or a cheerleader, but holds participants accountable if they falter.

"If they're not willing to change; it can't work," he said.

The program saved taxpayers $400,000 a year in jail costs, according to the Probation Department. In Phase 1, participants must somehow provide for themselves while attending mandatory counseling sessions and classes in computer skills, cognitive skills, English and math. Because of the demanding schedule, they can't work during their first four months in the program.

Participants are under house arrest and wear electronic-monitoring devices. Or they live in a sober living environment with enforced curfews and zero tolerance for drugs and alcohol, said Deputy Probation Officer Richard Hori, who manages Bridges.

"The most structured living is in jail," Hori said, "They feel like they're getting a break (when they come to Bridges)."

Counselors who worked with the participants and probation officers have visited Griffith's family, Hori said. Last week, the participants were writing their reflections about Griffith for their newsletter. The tragedy has galvanized participants, family members and probation officers alike. His picture is visible everywhere, on computers, on the rafters and on buttons worn close to the heart.

"We have criminal justice people embracing this group of people," Mary said. "They check up on you when you're in a dangerous place, at home and at work."

The day of the fateful Giants game when Barry Bonds would hit his 700th home run, Bridges held a car wash to raise money for outings and other activities. The group was coalescing and having a good time. Griffith was laughing and getting soaked with water. Everyone left on a good note, Hori said.

Mary had sat beside Griffith in the computer lab. Together they solved problems and worked on their resumes. The two had become friends and were preparing to go job hunting, a Phase II requirement.

"He was the nicest, sweetest man. He was so young, and he didn't die because of drugs," she said. "It opened my eyes; how every, single day I want to be coherent for my son and living life."

For further information about Bridges call 599-7336.