August 26, 2023 by Anthony Riccio
In response to the nationwide concern over police use of force, Franklin police in Massachusetts are utilizing a program known as the Jail Diversion Program to deescalate calls involving individuals with mental health conditions. This initiative is being implemented in 15 cities and towns across the state.
The program partners police officers with mental health clinicians, such as the nearly two-year partnership between Officer Tyler Peabody and Clinician Kallie Montagano. When responding to a call, Officer Peabody secures the scene before Montagano joins to communicate with the individual, helping to calm the situation. The focus is on listening and understanding, with follow-ups conducted later with patients and their families.
Program director Sarah Abbott indicates statistics may suggest 7-10% of police encounters involve someone with mental health issues, her experience suggests it could be as high as 50-60%.
The effectiveness of collaborative efforts is significant, reports co-response programs divert individuals with behavioral health conditions 74% to 88% of the time. Additionally, an average of 55 people per month are diverted from unnecessary emergency room visits. The program has been appreciated by family members of those with mental health conditions, who have seen tangible progress in the handling of crises.
According to the Massachusetts state government, people with mental illness are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. Diversion programs represent a fresh perspective on mental health within criminal justice. Rather than sending individuals with mental health issues directly to jail, these initiatives aim to offer treatment and support. In Massachusetts, various programs work to identify those in need of mental health care, diverting them from traditional legal channels into therapy or counseling. In some cases, completing a program may even lead to charges being dropped or reduced. Such an approach emphasizes compassion, understanding, and rehabilitation rather than punishment. It acknowledges mental health as a significant factor in criminal behavior and seeks to address underlying issues. Consequently, diversion programs in Massachusetts are becoming more recognized as an essential aspect of modern criminal justice.
A mental health assessment is an essential tool for discovering the right diversion pathways in criminal justice. Through careful evaluation, professionals can determine whether an individual’s behavior may be linked to mental health issues. This evaluation includes interviews, questionnaires, and sometimes medical tests to understand a person’s mental state. In Massachusetts, these assessments help decide if a person is suitable for diversion into mental health treatment instead of jail. By recognizing the connection between mental well-being and criminal actions, these assessments guide the way to a more humane approach. Instead of immediate punishment, the focus shifts to understanding and assistance. As a result, mental health assessments play a vital role in reshaping how criminal justice interacts with those in need of care and support.
A Massachusetts organization called Advocates has been operating pre-arrest Co-Response Programs across police departments. Initiated on the premise clinicians and law enforcement can better address community needs when working collaboratively, these programs have proven successful.
This award-winning Co-Response model emphasizes deep cooperation between clinicians and the police patrol division. Cross-training has fostered mutual understanding and respect, allowing police to quickly provide mental health services in the field. As a result, police departments have noticed a decrease in repeat calls, with individuals being directed to more fitting services.
Co-Response clinicians, present at the scene, facilitate arrest diversions, diverting on average 75% of individuals with criminal behavior into suitable treatment. The approach also provides support and referrals for those not diverted. Moreover, immediate assessment and de-escalation on-site reduce unnecessary transport to hospital emergency departments.
The program’s history dates back to 2003, with the Framingham Police Department’s launch. It has since been replicated in various towns and cities, and in 2018, a national Co-Response Training and Technical Assistance Center was established to further expand these efforts within Massachusetts.
In Massachusetts, collaborative partnerships between mental health professionals and legal authorities are transforming the way criminal justice is approached. These partnerships focus on identifying and addressing mental health concerns that may lead to criminal behavior. Mental health experts offer insights into an individual’s psychological needs, while legal authorities ensure proper legal procedures are followed. Together, develop tailored treatment plans might include therapy, counseling, or support groups, instead of traditional legal penalties. This collaboration highlights a shift in thinking, where mental health and legal systems work hand in hand. By doing so, prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. These partnerships illustrate a shared commitment to a more compassionate and effective approach to criminal justice. They represent a model for other jurisdictions to consider, showcasing a path towards more humane and constructive solutions.
Testimonials from police officers and social workers support the effectiveness of diversion programs for people with mental illness. When police are called, officers and mental health professionals are able to provide the appropriate support, leading to better outcomes for the individuals and the community as a whole.
Measuring the impact of diversion programs in Massachusetts requires careful evaluation using specific methods and metrics. By looking at data such as completion rates, recidivism, and individual progress, authorities can gauge the success of these programs. Surveys and interviews with participants, family members, and professionals involved provide personal insights into how these programs affect lives. Quantitative measurements, such as crime rates among participants before and after the program, offer a statistical view of success. Combining both qualitative and quantitative approaches provides a comprehensive understanding of how these programs operate and their effectiveness. Regular evaluations ensure initiatives continue to meet the goals of supporting individuals with mental health needs within the criminal justice system. Through careful examination, the ongoing refinement of diversion programs in Massachusetts reflects a commitment to a more humane and effective approach to criminal justice.
Looking ahead, diversion programs in Massachusetts are likely to continue evolving, embracing new trends and developments. Ongoing research and innovation will likely lead to more refined methods of assessing mental health needs and creating personalized treatment plans. Integration of technology, such as virtual counseling or therapy, could further enhance accessibility and effectiveness. Community involvement and education may increase, promoting broader understanding and support for these initiatives. Furthermore, continuous collaboration between mental health professionals, legal authorities, and law enforcement ensures programs remain responsive to changing societal needs. Massachusetts’ commitment to fostering a compassionate, rehabilitative approach to criminal justice promises exciting possibilities. As lessons are learned and new methods explored, diversion programs will likely remain at the forefront of a humane and innovative approach to criminal justice in the state.
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