Mental Health Diversion Program Launched in Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Vicinage

The Cumberland/Gloucester/Salem Vicinage, in conjunction with the local prosecutor's offices, today launched a mental health diversion program designed to improve connections between the criminal justice system and community-based behavioral health services.

The collaborative initiative, called JusticeLink I.D. (Identify. Divert.), enhances early identification, care coordination, and access to mental health treatment to redirect eligible individuals accused of certain crimes away from incarceration and into community-based treatment programs.

During a formal announcement at the Cumberland County Courthouse in Bridgeton this afternoon, Assignment Judge Benjamin Telsey said the combined efforts of these government and community-based agencies provide the support necessary for individuals to succeed.

"It's that combination that can be transformative. Our hope is that JusticeLink I.D. will lead to successes similar to those we have witnessed in recovery court where connection to treatment has resulted in meaningful, and often extraordinary change for individuals living with substance use disorder.

"We have seen people enter the system in crisis and through treatment, supervision, accountability and support, emerge with renewed stability, restored dignity, and a very different future," Judge Telsey said.

JusticeLink I.D. employs a multidisciplinary approach through the partnership of the courts, prosecutors' offices, public defenders, behavioral health providers, and vital social service organizations.

"This program is important because we need to build awareness at every entry point into our system," said Cumberland County Prosecutor Jennifer Webb-McRae. "The prosecutors will be able to identify folks who are in need of a mental health court."

Regional Public Defender Margaret Butler said the program provides community-based support.

"JusticeLink I.D. allows defense counsel to advocate for treatment-based solutions," Butler said.