Court Rules That Drug Users Can Be Jailed for Relapsing on Probation Judges in Massachusetts can now order addicts to remain drug-free as a condition of probation. The state's highest court gave the ruling on Monday, emphasizing that addicts can be jailed for relapsing on probation. The ruling comes as a response to the widespread opioid epidemic sweeping
the country. The decision did not escape criticism. Attorney Lisa Newman-Polk, to ABC News Many addiction specialists view substance abuse as a medical condition that requires treatment,
not punishment.