NCJ Number
92492
Date Published
1982
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Los Angeles County's Advocacy, Intervention, and Diversion Services Program (AIDS) has provided a comprehensive, centralized service to the mentally retarded offender population residing in its catchment area.
Abstract
AIDS is the only centralized unit within the larger regional center network. With the clear establishment of expectations, policy, and procedure, the staff has engaged in program development. The increased recognition, visibility, and accountability of AIDS counselors enhances the working relationship needed among various agencies in the county involved with the mentally retarded offender. Two counselors provide case management for 50 active AIDS clients: those residing in their own home or a community-based residence serving this special group. One counselor provides an intake function and acts as backup to the Regional Center Law Enforcement Liaison person at the county jail. This is in addition to providing ongoing case management, resource development, and community outreach activities. The counselors monitor client progress in the community, orient community agencies to AIDS functions, place clients in community facilities as appropriate, and develop community resources to better meet client needs. AIDS largely operates under a State diversion statute that allows the mentally retarded offender to be diverted from the criminal justice system for a designated period ranging from 6 months to 2 years. If the client is successful in completing the terms of the individual plan for addressing the offender, criminal charges will be dismissed. The staff submits formal reports on client progress to the court every 6 months.