It was an afternoon of transformation at Pompano Beach Community Court, where Judge Betsy Benson presides.
✨ A 23-year-old man in recovery proudly graduated.
✨ At least three people experiencing homelessness were connected with essential services.
✨ A mother of 7-year-old twins, who had been living in a laundromat, received immediate housing assistance and was connected with long-term support to help her rebuild.
There were hugs, tears, cheers, and smiles as this unique court changed lives with empathy, kindness, new direction, and hope. The court is located at the Anne Weaver Health Center, at 2011 NW Third Ave., Pompano Beach.
Pompano Beach Community Court—one of three in the 17th Judicial Circuit—takes on low-level misdemeanor cases and municipal ordinance violations by offering innovative alternatives like community service, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. Community Court was created to help the homeless. Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood also have Community Courts.
Since January, Pompano Beach Community Court has:
✔️ Served 34 walk-ins
✔️ Heard 16 notices to appear
✔️ Connected participants with vital services through organizations such as SunServe, Broward Health, Care Resource, Henderson Behavioral Health, Legal Aid, Covenant House, Vocational Rehabilitation, Women in Distress, South Florida Wellness Network, BARC, and Serving Him Helping You Ministries.
This is what justice with compassion looks like. 💙
