If It's Broke, FIX IT!

About the Program

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

Year: 2015

Upwards of 85 percent of the defendants coming into the criminal justice system in Potter County suffer from addiction to, or strong dependence on, alcohol and/or other drugs. Many have little structure in their lives, inadequate family/social support, poor life skills, a lack of education and employment potential, and little accountability -- all of which greatly enhances the likelihood of re-offending. Potter County marshaled multiple resources for a concerted effort to establish alternative programs geared toward reducing recidivism and providing inmates with some of the tools and services they will need to allow for a smooth transition back into society. A three-phase plan was adopted: • A Specialty Court system introduced incrementally – DUI Treatment Court, Drug Treatment Court, Mental Health Treatment Court and Veterans Court. • Establishment of a prototype Women’s Residential Rehabilitation Center. • Implementation of a Community Re-Entry Initiative to prepare inmates for a successful return to society. Early results are encouraging. In fact, other county-based criminal justice system administrators are looking at the Potter County initiative as a model.