NCJ Number
164166
Date Published
1996
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This article focuses on the diversion of low-level, nonviolent mentally ill offenders to treatment programs in the community as an alternative to detention in dangerously overcrowded and understaffed jails.
Abstract
This type of cooperative program between the criminal justice system and the larger mental health care community is a proven way of effectively treating persons with mental illness. It also reduces the administrative burden on jails that are ill- equipped to provide the sophisticated level of mental health services currently expected of them. Such a policy also addresses the serious problem of inmate suicides in jails, which is the leading cause of death in jails; the vast majority of jail suicides occur in the mentally ill population. The prevention of suicides in jails depends largely on the ability and willingness of corrections staff and mental health professionals to work together in identifying those at risk and providing the treatment and monitoring necessary to ensure their safety and rehabilitation. An effective alternative is to divert misdemeanants who are mentally ill from jail to appropriate community-based mental health programs, where they can receive treatment and other vital support services. Diversion to treatment centers outside of jail has proven to be effective in reducing the likelihood of recidivism. 27 references