About the STAR Program

Findlay, Ohio — The Findlay Municipal Court has launched a new community-focused initiative designed to confront the realities of substance use and its impact on individuals, families, and the broader community.

The Survivors Talking About Recovery (STAR) program was established by Judge Mark C. Miller and Judge Alan D. Hackenberg, who both presided over the Findlay Municipal Court. The program was developed and facilitated by Penny Smith and Scott Beach of The Family Resource Center. Mr. Beach and Mrs. Smith worked within the Hancock County Correctional Facility as Jail-Based Case Managers.

How STAR Works

STAR is intended for individuals charged with certain drug-related offenses. Through structured sessions, participants hear firsthand accounts from survivors and family members whose lives have been impacted by substance use disorder. The initiative reflects the court’s ongoing commitment to accountability, education, and recovery-informed justice practices.

The goal is to move beyond traditional punitive approaches by increasing awareness of the human consequences of addiction while encouraging meaningful behavior change.

Program Structure

• Direct exposure to the lived experiences of individuals and families affected by addiction
• Facilitated sessions led by individuals with lived experience in recovery or family impact
• Community partnerships with recovery organizations in Hancock County
• Court-ordered participation for eligible individuals charged with substance-related offenses

Court-Ordered Incentives

Upon successful completion, participants may be eligible for court-ordered incentives, depending on judicial discretion:

• Suspended fines
• Reduced jail time
• Modification of license suspensions

The STAR program operates under the authority of the Findlay Municipal Court and is implemented through the court’s probation and compliance framework. Municipal Court judges oversee referrals and determine eligibility and outcomes consistent with Ohio law and court policy.

A Broader Shift in Ohio Courts

Court leadership emphasized that the program is designed to complement, not replace existing treatment and supervision strategies.

The People Behind the Program

Penny Smith and Scott Beach, who developed and facilitated the STAR program, brought their deep roots in Hancock County and first-hand understanding of addiction’s impact to the initiative. Working as Jail-Based Case Managers within the Hancock County Correctional Facility, they were uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the justice system and the recovery community.

Today, Penny and Scott are Co-Founders of Red Door Recovery Network, continuing their mission to connect individuals and families with the care and support they need.

Contact

For additional information about STAR program eligibility or scheduling, individuals should contact the Findlay Municipal Court Probation Department.

References

• Findlay Municipal Court. (n.d.). Survivors Talking About Recovery (STAR) program. City of Findlay, Ohio.
• The Courier. (n.d.). Bishop, Brown vie for judgeship.
• FOCUS Recovery and Wellness Community. (n.d.). Programs and services.
• Family Resource Center of Northwest Ohio. (n.d.). Recovery services.