County launches innovative community corrections program to reduce jail overcrowding and support mental health

Strafford County is taking significant strides in community corrections, as highlighted during the recent Commissioners Meeting on December 11, 2024. The county currently supervises 574 individuals in the community, a strategy aimed at reducing incarceration rates while ensuring public safety. This approach has proven effective, with a remarkably low failure to appear rate of just 2%, compared to the 15% rate for those who post cash bail.

The meeting featured a detailed discussion on the county's community corrections programs, which include various levels of supervision, from phone check-ins to more stringent measures like ankle bracelets and drug testing. These programs are designed to monitor defendants awaiting trial, allowing them to remain in the community while minimizing the risk of reoffending.

A key focus was the integration of mental health support within the corrections framework. The county has established partnerships with local mental health agencies to provide necessary resources and treatment for individuals with mental health issues. This initiative is crucial, as many individuals in the system struggle with dual diagnoses of mental health and substance misuse. The county's mental health core program aims to connect these individuals with appropriate care, reducing the burden on the jail system and promoting rehabilitation.

Additionally, the introduction of a new public safety assessment tool marks a significant advancement in the county's approach to pretrial supervision. This evidence-based tool, recently implemented, helps judges make informed decisions regarding bail and supervision levels, further enhancing the effectiveness of community corrections.

The meeting underscored the importance of these programs not only in terms of public safety but also in terms of cost savings for the county. By keeping individuals in the community rather than in jail, the county avoids the high costs associated with incarceration, which can double the medical budget due to the need for psychiatric care.

Overall, the discussions at the Strafford County Commissioners Meeting reflect a commitment to innovative solutions in criminal justice, emphasizing rehabilitation over incarceration and addressing the underlying issues of mental health and substance abuse. As these programs continue to evolve, they hold the potential to significantly impact the lives of individuals in the justice system and the broader community.