Behavioral Health Court

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

Behavioral Health Court is a collaborative court that helps mentally ill offenders receive treatment and supervision and set life goals in lieu of jail time; the program holds individuals accountable while helping them to change for the better. Launched in 2010 with funding from Proposition 63, a California tax on millionaires that benefits mental health programs, Behavioral Health Court is a pioneering and innovative program that helps offenders develop skills and receive appropriate mental health services and support to help them maintain stable lives. The County of San Diego established the program to end the jail/prison revolving door many mentally ill offenders find themselves passing through. Defendants in this program are required to plead guilty to their crimes, but then they receive treatment and are closely monitored to reduce their criminal activity. Eligible offenders must meet specific criteria for the program, including a formal diagnosis of a mental illness.