Jail Diversion Program
2017 NACo Achievement Award Winner
New Hanover County, N.C., NC
Best In Category
About the Program
Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)
Year: 2017
On October 19, 2015, the New Hanover County Board of County Commissioners adopted a resolution of support for the National Stepping Up Initiative. Throughout 2015, the county engaged in a data analytics project to better understand the composition and needs of the existing inmate population, and researched potential programs to address recidivism and front end diversion. As a result of the county’s data analyses, funding for a residential pilot program targeting high risk/high need female offenders, 25 years of age or older with criminal histories and co-occurring mental health/substance use disorders was determined to be a viable financial investment. The purpose of the pilot program was two-fold, in that reducing our county’s jail population was a priority, but more importantly ensuring that the most vulnerable people with high risks and high needs were getting the appropriate behavioral health treatment and services to include comprehensive case management rather than languishing in our jail. 11 females ages 27 to 50 with an average age of 36 participated in the program. These women had an average of 21 convictions with the cohort having a reported 227 total convictions. The participants were incarcerated an average of 27 months. Additionally, 60% reported mental health and/or substance use issues with heroin identified as their drug of choice. Nine of the females successfully completed the program and procured permanent housing. Five participants reported working full-time, 3 working part-time, and 2 were unemployed. 100% of the participants reported being compliant with their medications. The participants all received intensive therapeutic support and comprehensive case management. The pilot program was deemed a success and, as a result, the county is seeking proposals for a second residential pilot programming with an extended duration of at least six months with the anticipation of equally successful outcomes.