NCJ Number
235238
Journal
Journal of Court Innovation Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: Winter 2008 Pages: 123-149
Date Published
2008
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This article provides a detailed description of the development and program components of the ComALERT (Community and Law Enforcement Resources Together) program, which was initiated in 1999 by the metropolitan district attorney's office to address reentry issues in Kings County (Brooklyn), NY.
Abstract
The creation and evolution of ComALERT was driven by the concern of the district attorney that many released inmates were returning to the community without the services and help they needed to succeed in pursuing a law-abiding and independent life in the community. In order to be eligible for ComALERT, the participants must be paroled to Brooklyn and must have at least 6 months remaining of parole supervision. The participants must be at least 18 years old, in need of substance abuse treatment, not be a sex offender or arsonist, and not have a serious and persistent mental illness. The reentry program emphasizes substance abuse treatment and employment assistance. A substance abuse treatment agency licensed by New York State's Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services staff ComALERT with professional counselors. For most clients, the ComALERT program lasts 3 to 6 months. In order to graduate from ComALERT, a participant must be drug-free for 3 consecutive months and be either employed or in school, if physically able. After completion of the treatment requirements, clients are encouraged to continue to visit the ComALERT Reentry Center to receive aftercare counseling as needed. Approximately one-third of all ComALERT clients receive a referral to, and preferential placement in, the Dow Fund's Ready, Willing, and Able (RWA) program, which provides transitional employment, transitional housing (if needed), job skills training, 12-step programs, and courses in financial management and other life skills. Over half of those who participate, graduate from the program. Graduates have low recidivism and high employment rates. 1 table and 52 notes