THE EFFECT OF MENTAL HEALTH DIVERSION PROGRAMS ON RECIDIVISM RATES IN TARRANT COUNTY TEXAS

Abstract

People with mental health issues have found themselves in and out of the criminal justice system with no real way to get out of the perpetual cycle. Mental health courts were created to give the people involved in the criminal justice system a way out and a way to find success in their lives. Previous research suggests that these mental health courts have reduced recidivism rates in people with mental health issues who have successfully completed their treatment programs. Also, other past research states that mental health symptoms are improved through the program. Our study used data from Judge Carr's Court here in Tarrant County to conduct a secondary data analysis on the 204 participants in the mental health diversion program. We had access to court dockets and psychiatric evaluations on all 204 participants, which provided insight into their cases and a deeper understanding of the individuals. The following paper discusses the offenders in the program, their mental health history, past trauma, and involvement in the criminal justice system, as well as the study's implications.