Since it was launched at the beginning of the year, Currituck’s County’s first substance abuse recovery court is making excellent progress. The program is helping local citizens succeed in their efforts to stay healthy and avoid relapses into substance abuse that would lead to incarceration.
A recovery court aims to rehabilitate members of the community who are facing criminal charges due to their substance use disorders. County residents who are charged with or convicted of victimless crimes may avoid incarceration if they follow a drug treatment, testing, and monitoring program.
The Currituck County recovery court held its first session on January 16, 2026. Since then, recovery court officials have conducted bi-weekly court sessions that combine accountability with encouragement, emphasizing both personal responsibility and recovery support. They have also coordinated with local churches, treatment providers, mental health professionals, and support groups to ensure participants have access to care. The Currituck County Opioid Program helps recovery court participants connect with resources to aid their recovery and monitors their progress.
“We are encouraged by the commitment of participants and the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved. As we move forward, we plan to continue tracking progress, refining our processes, and expanding supportive services to strengthen outcomes,” said Angela Lottman, Currituck County Opioid Program Coordinator.
Lottman said the recovery court officials have observed positive engagement among participants, with several showing measurable improvements in attendance, treatment compliance, and overall well-being. The court has also identified opportunities for enhancement, including additional resources for peer mentoring and increased community awareness of our program.
Robert P. Trivette, Chief District Court Judge, 1st Judicial District of North Carolina, presides over the court and works with team of officials from several agencies, including the North Carolina Court System, District Attorney’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, NC Department of Adult Correction Probation and Parole Division, and law enforcement.
Citizens interested in the recovery court schedule or information on the opioid program may contact Lottman at angela.lottman@currituckcountync.gov or 252-273-9632.
Recovery Court team members include: (L-R)
Front: Dr. Barbara Courtney, Jennifer Simpson, Hannah Tate, Angela Lottman, Tyffany Friend, Cody Grimstead, Commissioner Janet Rose
Back: Commissioner Selina Jarvis, Kaylee Bynum, Lt. Jesse Taylor, Judge Robert Trivette, Defense Attorney Thomas Routten, Sheriff Matt Beickert, Pastor Dan Bergey
