SJC Exchange Library

While there is a growing trend promoting treatment vs jail for justice-involved people with mental health needs, jurisdictions struggle with how to divert people to treatment once a criminal case begins. This session will examine two examples of pre-plea diversion for people charged with misdemeanors–one in LA County and the other (focused on fitness) in Cook County. In both pilot programs, people are linked to treatment early and, if successful, avoid criminal prosecution. Panelists will discuss the planning and launch of their pilots, and the solutions to the challenges they faced.
#October2019Houston
#MentalHealth
#Diversion
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