Governor Robert Bentley recently proclaimed May 12-18 as Prevention Week in Alabama, coinciding with the National Prevention Week observance. Sponsored by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, NPW is dedicated to increasing awareness of, and action around, substance abuse and mental health issues. It serves to promote prevention efforts, provide education about behavioral health and strengthen community partnerships.

This year's theme, "Your voice. Your choice. Make a difference.," emphasizes that the prevention of substance abuse and promotion of mental health starts with the choices people make in their own lives.

Dr. Maranda Brown, director of the Office of Prevention Services in ADMH’s Division of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, says, “The Office of Prevention Services is extremely excited to celebrate the 2nd annual NPW observance.

MONTGOMERY, AL- James Robert Whitaker, 60, was sentenced Friday to 5 years' probation, $5,000 fine; and $90,356 restitution, announced George L. Beck, Jr., United States Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama.

Whitaker was a retired Air Force Officer and a civil service employee from Prattville.

Whitaker pleaded guilty in October 2012 to one count of participating in an act which affected a personal financial interest. Whitaker, while working at the Air Force Legal Operating Agency, directed Air Force JAG officers to stay at local hotels at a higher monetary rate, when housing was available on Maxwell Air Force Base at a much lower rate.

 As a result, Whitaker received a total of 587,282 Marriott reward points. Whitaker also received an additional 100,000 reward points for other room arrangements. The U.S. Air Force suffered a loss of $90,356.