Arrested in Holmes Beach for possessing marijuana, cocaine and paraphernalia, the case of an 18-year-old Bradenton man was transferred March 24 to drug court.
The state formally charged Juan Avellaneda in December 2015 with felony drug charges. Avellaneda was pulled over for an expired vehicle registration.
Twelfth Circuit Chief Judge Andrew Owens ordered the drug program for Avellaneda.
Aimed at breaking the cycle between crime and drugs and alleviating jail overcrowding, the court program offers education, counseling and group therapy.
Alleged offenders waive their right to a speedy trial, submit to urinalyses and must appear in court regularly or face arrest and jail time.