Court orders 'Discovering Better Choices' class in multiple deferred judgments

The court repeatedly ordered defendants placed on deferred judgment terms to enroll in and complete an online program called Discovering Better Choices and to remit associated deferred-judgment fees and court costs. Those who comply with the class and fee requirements will see cases dismissed after the supervision period.

For example, Blake Swearingen's deferred judgment requires completion of the class within 12 months; Cameron Thompson and other defendants were given similar instructions with deadlines and contact information for class providers. The clerk was instructed to email class contact details and deferred-judgment paperwork to defendants.

The presiding officer stressed defendants were responsible for scheduling and completing the class and producing certificates of completion by the deadlines. "It's on you to get that class set up, taken, and then provide us back that proof of completion for that class," the judge said, and warned that failure to submit proof would lead to continued hearings or revocation.