Prosecutors across country are helping to set up programs that divert people with behavioral health needs from the justice system and into community-based treatment and support services. These programs have been shown to accelerate peoples’ engagement with community-based treatment services, reduce collateral consequences of incarceration, and ensure criminal justice and behavioral health treatment resources are used in more efficient and effective ways.

This webinar will describe some of the unique benefits of and challenges to developing these specialized diversion programs. Participants will also discuss best practices in program implementation, such as developing eligibility standards, establishing candidate screening protocols, and setting treatment conditions. Prosecutors from the Second Judicial District in Arkansas—a current Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program grantee—and the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office will share their own experiences with behavioral health diversion, including its importance for prosecutors and lessons learned.

Speakers:
• Scott Ellington, Second Judicial District Prosecuting Attorney, Mississippi Country, Arkansas
• Robert Hood, Project Director, Association of Prosecuting Attorneys
• Kent Lovern, Chief Deputy District Attorney, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
• Hallie Fader-Towe, Program Director, Behavioral Health, CSG Justice Center

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