Hamilton County celebrated a life-changing milestone Thursday as five individuals graduated from the county’s Drug Treatment Court program during a ceremony at the Historic Courthouse Courtroom. Superior Court Judge David Najjar presided over the event, which recognized the hard-fought progress of participants working toward recovery and stability.

Among the graduates was Noblesville resident Megan Fugate, who shared her emotional journey from addiction to sobriety. “Drug Court literally saved my life,” Fugate said. “I needed this program to help me get sober and reclaim my life.”

Fugate began using drugs at 13 and has been entangled in the justice system since age 19. Facing an eight-year prison sentence, she was instead given an opportunity through Drug Treatment Court—an alternative sentencing program launched in 2010 that provides structured treatment and support for nonviolent, drug-dependent individuals.

The court operates two tracks: one for general substance-related charges and another for repeat OWI offenders. Participants undergo 18 to 24 months of intensive supervision, including court appearances, drug testing, treatment sessions, and educational or employment commitments.

“Drug Treatment Court is about second chances, but it’s also about accountability, healing, and hope,” Judge Najjar said. “Today’s graduates have done the hard work, and they deserve to be proud of how far they’ve come.”

Fugate, who will mark three years of sobriety on May 12, now works full-time and is focused on rebuilding relationships with her children and support network.

“My kids and I grew up together. Actually, they grew up before me, but I’m catching up,” she said.

For more information about the Hamilton County Drug Treatment Court, call (317) 776-9672 or visit the program’s webpage.