Substance Abuse Traffic Offenders Program

SATOP consists of a formal drug/alcohol assessment followed by substance abuse treatment or a program designed to prevent repeat offenses. You will be referred for a professional assessment at an offender management unit (OMU) near you. Based on addiction issues, risk level, prior offenses and other factors, the OMU will recommend you for one of six SATOP programs:

• Offender education program — a 10-hour course, typically for first-time DWI
• Weekend intervention program — a 48-hour intensive program, commonly required for repeat offenses or first offenses with a high level of intoxication
• Clinical intervention program — 50 hours of outpatient treatment over several weeks, typically ordered for drivers with multiple prior offenses
• Adolescent diversion education program — a 10-hour program designed for individuals under the age of 21 arrested or cited for alcohol- or drug-related offenses such as zero tolerance, minor in possession (MIP) or “Abuse and Lose”
• Youth clinical intervention — five weeks of outpatient counseling for those under the age of 21
• Traditional treatment — residential facility or intensive outpatient programs for those assessed as high-risk for chemical dependency

Many counties allow for a diversion of the criminal penalties and license sanctions for a first-time DWI in exchange for SATOP weekend intervention. However, taking such a deal is essentially an admission of guilt. You should always consult with a lawyer before entering a DWI plea or negotiating with the local prosecutor.