Jail Diversion
The primary purpose of the Jail Diversion Program is to prevent or minimize the number of mentally ill persons who end up in jail by providing
community-based treatment for people arrested that have a mental illness and meet other program criteria. These individuals will be identified
at the pre-booking and post-booking phase of the judicial process.
Qualified mental health professionals meet with clients who are incarcerated and complete an assessment. If the client meets the Jail Diversion
criteria, a service plan is developed with direct support services, and referrals are made to appropriate community treatment services. Jail Diversion
is an alternative to incarceration if the client is willing to follow the agreed upon service plan.
Eligibility Criteria
- Adults 18 years of age and older
- Entry into the program will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
- Participation will be voluntary
- Individuals who qualify for the program will have a severe and persistent mental illness
- Legal criteria generally include misdemeanor non-violent offenses, although exceptions to the general legal criteria are permitted when agreed upon by all parties involved in the diversion plan
How to Make a Referral
Referrals are made through a provider or internally at the Polk County Jail.