NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Nacogdoches County is tackling a significant issue faced by jails nationwide: a high number of inmates with mental health challenges. Sheriff Jason Bridges has been concerned about this problem since he took office 12 years ago.
“This isn’t just our issue. It’s a growing trend across Texas,” Bridges said.
To address this, the county has launched a Mental Health Deputy Program, and it’s showing promising results just two months in. Bridges noted that in the first two weeks, the program successfully diverted five individuals from jail to necessary mental health assistance. “If this trend continues, that number could really add up,” he added.
Approximately 43% of the county’s inmate population has faced mental health issues. The Mental Health Deputy Program is funded through grants, allowing two deputies to focus solely on mental health-related calls and inmates. The aim is straightforward: divert individuals needing help away from jail and into treatment.
When deputies respond to a call, they assess the situation. If the violation is minor, they collaborate with the Burke Center for treatment rather than bringing the person to jail. Common calls often involve petty offenses like criminal trespassing. If necessary, they can still handle charges later while ensuring the individual receives help right away.
Deputy Shane Johnson emphasized the program’s impact: “We can spend more time finding solutions. Regular patrol officers face multiple calls and have to act quickly. We can focus on the individual’s needs.”
This program not only helps those in crisis but also improves efficiency within the county’s law enforcement. By having dedicated deputies for mental health issues, other officers can better allocate their time. It also alleviates crowding in the jail, which currently has over 75 inmates housed in other counties due to space limitations.
Bridges highlighted the program’s broader benefits for the community. “Helping those who need treatment is a huge relief. The early results have been fantastic. This program needs to continue,” he said.
The initiative is supported by a $130,000 grant from the Burke Center, with the county matching 25%. Additionally, the Charles and Lois Marie Bright Foundation contributed $80,431 for vehicle purchases for the deputies.
As mental health challenges gain more attention, this proactive approach in Nacogdoches sets a noteworthy example. A 2023 report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness reveals that roughly 20% of inmates have a serious mental illness. Programs like the one in Nacogdoches could serve as a blueprint for other counties facing similar challenges.
Supporting mental health not only benefits individuals but strengthens communities. As more jurisdictions recognize the importance of diverting individuals from jail to treatment, we may see significant changes in how mental health is addressed within the justice system.
Check out this related article: Unveiling the Connection: How Digital Exclusion Impacts the Mental Health of Older Adults
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