Superior Court Judge David Najjar and Drug Treatment Court Graduate Kristi Kennedy of Carmel. (Photo provided)
Posted By: The Reporter November 7, 2025
Local mom finds confidence, community & fresh start through recovery
Hamilton County’s Drug Treatment Court celebrated the graduation of Kristi Kennedy during a special ceremony Thursday, Nov. 6 in Superior Court 5 at the Judicial Center. The program offers a treatment-focused solution to help nonviolent offenders overcome substance use disorder.
Kennedy, a lifelong Carmel resident, entered Drug Court in February 2024 after she was arrested for her fourth count of driving under the influence which led to the placement of her young son in foster care. Kennedy says that’s when she knew she had to make a lasting change.
“When I first entered the program, I was angry. I didn’t want to be there,” she said. “But over time, I started really connecting with people instead of faking my way through.”
Kennedy has been sober since then, marking over a year of continuous sobriety.
Photo provided
“Drug Court gave me confidence, accountability, and a family within the recovery community,” she said. “Sobriety gave me my life back, and my son gets his mom back.”
Kennedy’s son is expected to return home permanently in December, a milestone she describes as the greatest reward of her journey. Following graduation, Kennedy plans to become a certified recovery coach, helping others in Drug Court along their recovery paths.
Superior Court Judge David Najjar, who oversees the program, says Kennedy’s story embodies the mission of Drug Court.
“Kristi transformed her pain into purpose,” Najjar said. “She faced her challenges head-on, rebuilt her family, and now she’s preparing to help others do the same. That’s what recovery is all about.”
