NCJ Number
207504
Date Published
2000
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This paper discusses the experience of King County in Seattle, WA, in the diversion of individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders from the criminal justice system through an integrated approach.
Abstract
The need to divert individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders from the criminal justice system to treatment has become increasingly clear. There is compelling data in King County, to support the need for effective diversion alternatives for individuals in the justice system suffering from co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Based on this data, it was determined that the provision of an integrated approach to the multiple problems these populations present when diverted to community-based treatment and support was essential. An integrated system includes: sharing clients, sharing information, sharing planning, and sharing resources. This paper describes difficulties experienced in King County in finding support for integrated diversion services. However, within their integrated diversion efforts, the development in the sharing of resources is illustrated with the Seattle Police Department, the county hospital, the King County District Court, and the mental health and substance abuse systems. King County’s experience demonstrates that progress can be made in creating integrated systems of care to divert individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders from the criminal justice system.