How far back do I have to go to pay them. I have straightened out my life and beaten my addiction. Now the reminance of my rebellious life style is costing me. They say I owe 9800 in total. How do I get this off my back

Make a payment plan and pay them, If these are court ordered fines for criminal activity, they will last forever till paid.
Have they continued any form of probation till fines are paid, ( very common in the US)

I was told that there is a statute of limitations on money owed to the gov't. The charges are for driving while suspended etc.

What you were told is incorrect.