by Sandi Johnston & Debbie Abt

John Doe appears to be a goal directed intelligent and ambitious young man with a bright future. He maintains a well-paying part-time job, is a student at a university in Michigan and resides with a supportive family. However, things are not as they seem.

In September 2000 a turn of events in his life provided us with a glimpse of a problem that has had an impact on his future. John was placed on probation for 18 months as a result of his gambling addiction. He is required to report monthly to the Windsor Probation & Parole Office, attend for treatment at Windsor Regional Problem Gambling Services and not attend any casinos. This has not only impacted his activities in Ontario, but also in Michigan where he is bound by similar terms.

As professionals, we recognize that problem gambling can manifest itself in many different crimes related to the addiction. We presently have clients convicted of drug offences, domestic violence, child neglect, fraud and illegal sport betting but their involvement with the judicial system is the direct result of their addiction to gambling. Often this addiction will include feelings of shame and the person may make many attempts to keep the problem hidden, yet eventually it will surface. In the event that the gambling addiction fails to be addressed, the person will experience continued difficulty with employment or family life, personal losses and/or continued involvement with the law.

Our primary responsibility as Probation and Parole Officers is to monitor the conditions of the probation order as directed by the Court and in addition to attempt to address the underlying issues which led to the person’s criminal involvement. Although initially the crime for which a person is put on probation may not reflect the underlying problem of a gambling addiction, it becomes apparent over time that for many, their involvement with the Criminal Justice System is directly related to this illness. The probation officer will refer the client to the many excellent community programs, which can assist with the surface problem reflected in the criminal charges. These could include partner abuse groups, credit counselling, parenting programs or groups to address drug and alcohol addiction. However, in order to effect meaningful change, the probation officer has to see beyond the presenting crime on the surface and find an effective way to address the addiction, which is the real cause of the crime.

The Windsor Probation and Parole Office has formed a partnership with Problem Gambling Services, with the former providing referrals, offering support and assisting with ongoing counselling which supports the treatment provided by the latter. It is through this effective collaboration that many clients are able to combat their gambling addiction.

To effectively change the cycle of addictive behaviour is neither quick nor easy. In the case of John Doe, his addiction to gambling continues to be a struggle and to have a negative impact on his life. Despite his involvement with Problem Gambling Services and his personal recognition of his addiction, the secrecy and shame remains with him. His struggle to come to terms with his addiction will be difficult as he is not yet prepared to admit to his family, to his friends or other professionals that he has a problem. With the assistance of both Probation and Parole and Problem Gambling Services, it is hoped that John Doe will soon be on the road to recovery.

WINDSOR REGIONAL PROBLEM GAMBLING SERVICES
2109 Ottawa Street, Suite 401, Windsor, Ontario, N8Y 1R8
Tel: (519) 254-2112 Fax: (519) 254-0093
Email: probgamb@wrh.on.ca