Westmoreland County, PA — Since its establishment in 2015, the Drug Court in Westmoreland County has emerged as a transformative program for nearly 300 enrollees grappling with addiction, providing an alternative to incarceration. Common Pleas Court Judge Christopher Feliciani, who has spearheaded the program since its inception, was recently honored with the Anthony “Tony” Marcocci Award of Excellence for his pivotal role in its success.
The award, which Feliciani received unexpectedly at the program’s 18th graduation ceremony this summer, underscores his critical contributions. “I thought I was there to celebrate my graduates. Receiving the Tony Marcocci award came as a complete surprise,” Feliciani shared, reflecting on the legacy of dedication that the award represents.
Named after Marcocci, a former county detective and a key advocate for the drug court’s creation, the award highlights individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to combating drug-related issues within the community. Marcocci, who was deeply involved in the drug court, emphasized the significance of Feliciani’s efforts. “Judge Feliciani’s undertaking to launch the drug court here was inspired by his prior work in family court, where he witnessed firsthand the destructive role of drugs in legal disputes,” Marcocci explained during the surprise announcement.
Previously serving as a family court judge, Feliciani, 65, of Hempfield, initiated the county’s Court Appointed Special Advocates program, pairing adult volunteers with juveniles in the court system. His passion for reform led him to implement the drug court model, first to children and adults in his family court, and later as he transitioned to the criminal court system.
Feliciani’s impactful work has not gone unnoticed by his peers. In late 2022, he was elected as the president judge by the county’s 10 other judges, a role in which he now oversees the operations of the entire county court system while continuing to manage a full docket of criminal cases.
Westmoreland County’s Drug Court is funded by grants totaling over $630,000, supporting about 60 participants at a time. This two-year intensive program involves regular counseling, support mechanisms, and drug screenings designed to facilitate the recovery and rehabilitation of its participants. According to Drug Court Administrator Bill Shifko, Feliciani’s genuine commitment to building constructive relationships has been key to the program’s effectiveness. “His ability to garner positive interactions and support from other judges has been crucial. He thrives in this environment, often finding solace in the drug court sessions after challenging mornings in other courtrooms,” Shifko stated.
This spring, due to increased responsibilities as president judge, Feliciani passed the drug court responsibilities to Judge Scott Mears. However, his legacy continues to influence the program. “Though he’s passed on the baton, I believe Judge Feliciani hasn’t finished his work with the drug court entirely,” Shifko added.
Through his dedication and leadership, Judge Christopher Feliciani has demonstrated a profound commitment to reforming lives tarnished by addiction, earning both admiration and recognition as he shapes a more hopeful future for those entangled in the grip of substance abuse.