CNMI Drug Court staffing announced

From left, Drug Court Probation Officer Matilde Bermudes, Caseload Coordinator TaAnn T. Kabua, Drug Court Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio, Kim-Tenorio’s law clerk Jacqueline A. Nicolas, and Certified Caseworker Jaclyn T. Mendiola. (Contributed Photo)

The long-awaited CNMI Drug Court Program, a pre-plea diversion model for substance users charged with a crime, is quickly becoming a reality. By the efforts and emphatic support of the community, the enabling act for CNMI Drug Court, Public Law 19-14, was signed into law on Oct. 28, 2015.

Following passage of the law, the Judiciary submitted a proposed budget to the Legislature and received local funding. Since then, the CNMI Judiciary has been working diligently to staff members of the CNMI Drug Court Team. After conducting a series of panel interviews, the CNMI Judiciary is proud to announce the newest members of the CNMI Drug Court Team.

Caseload coordinator: TaAnn T. Kabua has a Bachelors of Science degree focused on Rehabilitation & Human Services. Additionally, Kabua underwent basic and advanced army training and has substantial work experience in a managerial position with the Commonwealth Healthcare Corp. Kabua has demonstrated that she is dedicated to this field, disciplined and extremely capable.

Certified caseworker: Jaclyn T. Mendiola graduated from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Mendiola, who has worked as a Juvenile Court counselor, Adolescent counselor, and Community Works leader, has dedicated many years to public service.

Certified caseworker: Jane P. McCale has a Bachelors of Science degree in Rehabilitation & Human Services. Before joining the CNMI Drug Court Team, McCale was a case manager with the American Red Cross. While she was with the Red Cross, McCale assisted countless Typhoon Soudelor victims. Her eagerness and compassion is a great addition to the team.

Drug Court probation officer: Matilde Bermudes has a Bachelors of Science Degree in Criminal Justice Administration, Associates of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice, and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Social Work. Bermudes, who has received substantial work experience, training and certifications from the Office of Adult Probation, has a lot to offer the CNMI Drug Court Team.

Drug Court Judge Teresa K. Kim-Tenorio expressed the Judiciary’s excitement over the staffing announcements, stating, “we are very fortunate to begin the CNMI Drug Court Program with such a strong caseload coordinator and cadre of team members focused on the goals of reducing the number of drug abusers, drug related crimes and recidivism here in the CNMI, while enabling offenders to become productive members of society.” To allow for the necessary training and preparation, the team anticipates a projected date for the first CNMI Drug Court session in August.