CONCORD, N.H. (AP) – A Merrimack County substance abuse program that aims to keep first-time drug and alcohol offenders from becoming habitual abusers is winning praise from justice and law enforcement officials.

The program, called FAST, or First-time Alcohol and Substance Treatment, consists of 12 hours of classes over two weeks, drug tests and a tour of the state prison. It was created by Merrimack County Attorney Dan St. Hilaire and is the only program of its kind in New Hampshire.

St. Hilaire said he came up with the idea when he ran for county attorney in 2002. He said he came to realize during his time as a Concord city prosecutor that other offenses were linked to drug and alcohol abuse that early intervention could prevent.

“It just made more sense to me to do the program up front the first time somebody got into trouble,” he said. “Because once someone is set in their ways, it’s hard to turn the ship around.”

After two years, other counties are taking notice of FAST, which has a 76 percent graduation rate, said Steve Casale, county coordinator for diversion programs.

Law enforcement authorities say they like the program because it pays for itself and makes offenders take responsibility for their actions beyond paying a fine.

“We can’t do things the way we used to with the old beat cop who dumps the beer and says, Get on your way,”‘ said Concord Police Chief Jerry Madden. “There is no accountability in that scenario. In order to correct things, you have to have that piece. Paying a fine is way too easy.”

Offenders pay $300 for the program, the same amount as a fine for possessing alcohol and small amounts of marijuana. They can only enroll if a prosecutor recommends it. Those who successfully complete the class and pass drug tests keep a conviction off their records.

So far this year 225 people have registered for FAST.

“Quite frankly, I would like to see it be mandatory for all high schools, even for kids who haven’t been charged,” said Tracy Connolly, a prosecutor at Concord District Court.

Drug and alcohol counselor Cheryl Wilkie said she sees a change in clients who go through the program. She said a client recently told her about the program’s effect on him.

“He said, My grades are better. I’m talking to my parents. I’m not running up to my bedroom when I get home,”‘ Wilkie said.