Rehab lack blasted

The Territory's lack of a residential rehabilitation program for teenagers on drugs has been described by a magistrate as "a disgrace".

Chief Magistrate Hugh Bradley was told that a 17-year-old boy would benefit from a live-in program of treatment and counselling.

"But there are none available in the Territory for a juvenile," case worker Linda Carter said.

"I think to get his head clear the youth needs to be free of all substances - not using anything - before a psychiatric assessment can take place."

Prosecutor Sergeant Stuart Davis said a restraining order banned the youth from remaining in his mother's company when intoxicated by petrol or alcohol.

Sgt Davis said that on Sunday evening the youth was at his mother's Palmerston home with bloodhot eyes, a slurred voice, a tired demeanour and smelling strongly of petrol. His mother found a can of petrol in his bedroom.

Defence lawyer Thomasin Opie said the youth had pleaded guilty early, admitted the breach and had spent a night in custody.

Mr Bradley refused bail and remanded the youth in detention for sentence on Friday.

Newshawk: http://www.napnt.org
Pubdate: 9th June 2004
Source: Northern Territory News
Author: Bob Watt
Website: http://www.ntnews.com.au
Email: ntnmail@ntn.newsltd.com.au
Copyright: 2004 Northern Territory News