May 26, 2022

Imprisoning too many mentally ill people

Center for Court Innovation - The number of incarcerated people in the United States with mental illness is inexcusably high. By some estimates, close to 50 percent of those in federal and state prisons are in need of mental health treatment, making the criminal legal system the de facto provider of such treatment for millions of people—even though it is not designed or equipped to address their needs.

At the Center for Court Innovation, we believe the ideal time to provide support is before people encounter the legal system—and, if they do come into contact with the system, to provide alternatives to incarceration that divert people into treatment in the community. 

Community First helps address the immediate needs of those who are unhoused in the Times Square area, while Supervised Release encourages voluntary engagement with services. The Brooklyn Mental Health Court and Manhattan Felony Alternative to Incarceration Court offer an alternative to jail for those charged with felonies, allowing them to remain in the community with intensive support and monitoring. Nationally, our experts work with courts and communities to improve outcomes. For instance, we helped develop an L.A.-based diversion program that provides a pathway for individuals with behavioral health conditions to enter treatment to have their cases dismissed. 


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