Former Judge Jacob Zach Winsett Calls for Stronger Community Support of Youth and Recovery Programs

Public Defender Turned Judge Advocates for Grassroots Action to Build Safer, Healthier Communities

EVANSVILLE, IN / ACCESS Newswire / June 3, 2025 /Former Judge Jacob Zach Winsett is raising his voice to highlight the urgent need for more local engagement in youth sports, addiction recovery support, and community education programs. A seasoned public servant and lifelong Hoosier, Winsett says the strongest changes in the justice system don 't start in the courtroom-they begin in the community.

"The law can respond to problems, but it can 't always prevent them," Winsett said. "That takes neighbors, mentors, and role models showing up early-on the field, in the classroom, or at the dinner table."

Why Youth Sports and Recovery Courts Matter Now More Than Ever

According to the CDC, youth who participate in sports are 20% more likely to graduate high school, and students engaged in regular physical activity report lower rates of substance use. At the same time, the U.S. faces a growing addiction crisis. Nearly one in seven Americans will develop a substance use disorder, with less than 10% receiving treatment, per the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

For Winsett, these statistics hit close to home. As a former Drug Court Public Defender and later a Superior Court Judge, he 's seen the value of second chances-and early guidance.

"I 've watched drug court save lives," he said. "But I 've also seen what happens when help comes too late. That 's why prevention is key-and that starts with giving kids and families strong foundations early on."

From Farm Life to the Frontlines of Justice Reform

Raised on a farm in Chrisney, Indiana, Winsett credits his upbringing and early participation in youth sports for instilling the discipline and values that guide his work today.

"You can 't skip chores on a farm," he recalled. "It taught me structure, just like youth sports did. These things seem small but shape who we become."

His journey took him from Heritage Hills High School to the University of Southern Indiana, and then to Nova Southeastern University Law School. Since then, his career has spanned public defense, private practice, and judicial service, including roles on the Warrick Jail Committee, Community Corrections Committee, and Court Alcohol and Drug Program Committee.

What Communities Can Do Without Waiting on Legislation

Rather than asking for donations or lobbying for new laws, Winsett is asking for something simpler: presence.

"If you want to make a difference, show up," he said. "Coach a team. Mentor a teen. Help someone in recovery feel seen. You don 't need a title to lead. You just need to care."

Here 's how people can start today:

• Volunteer with local youth leagues or after-school programs

• Join community advisory boards or support groups

• Offer transportation or encouragement to people in recovery

• Attend public meetings and court sessions to learn more about your justice system

Winsett also encourages professionals to share their skills with the next generation, whether by speaking at a school or mentoring a young person interested in law or public service.

"It doesn 't take big gestures. Just consistent ones," he emphasized. "Start with what 's in front of you. The ripple effect is real."

A Quiet Kind of Leadership

Known more for his behind-the-scenes work than for headlines, Winsett represents a steady hand in Indiana 's legal system. Colleagues cite his combination of humility, knowledge, and genuine care for people as rare qualities in today 's fast-moving judicial world.

"Leadership isn 't about making noise," he said. "It 's about doing the work and staying honest."

Call to Action: Build a Stronger Community-One Hour at a Time

Former Judge Winsett 's message is simple: lasting justice begins before the arrest, not after it. The more we invest in prevention, the less we 'll need correction.

If you 've ever wondered how to make your community safer, healthier, and more connected-start with your own block.

"We all have a role in shaping the future," he said. "And it doesn 't require a robe, a gavel, or a law degree-just effort."

To read the full interview, clickhere.

Contact: info@jacobzachwinsett.com

To learn more about community programs or to get involved, contact your local youth leagues, recovery court coordinators, or civic engagement centers.

SOURCE:Jacob Zach Winsett

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