Santa Clara County expands reentry program to assist late-night jail releases

The Santa Clara County Public Safety and Justice Committee meeting on March 13, 2025, spotlighted the pressing issue of late-night jail releases, with community members and officials advocating for improved support systems for individuals reentering society.

Key discussions centered around the challenges faced by those released between 11 PM and 6 AM, often left without transportation or a safe place to stay. The committee highlighted a new permanent program that offers overnight accommodations at the Mission Street Recovery center and transportation assistance through taxi vouchers and bus tokens. However, many speakers emphasized that these measures are insufficient, particularly for individuals living in remote areas like South County, where public transport options are limited during late hours.

Mark Ashford, acting chair of the Lived Experience Advisory Board, criticized the current approach as rushed and disconnected from the realities faced by those with lived experience. He urged for more collaboration in decision-making processes, stressing that data should reflect the human stories behind the numbers. Other speakers echoed this sentiment, sharing personal accounts of the difficulties faced after late-night releases, including homelessness and lack of access to essential services.

Brett Bymaster from the Healing Grove Health Center proposed leveraging funding from the CalAIM program to provide immediate support, such as hotel stays and transportation, to those released from jail. He highlighted the bureaucratic hurdles that often prevent timely access to necessary services, such as Medi-Cal.

The committee also explored the concept of voluntary delayed releases, which allow individuals to choose a daytime release instead of being released at night. While some counties have adopted this model, the uptake has been low, as many individuals prefer immediate release.

Sheriff officials acknowledged the outdated systems currently in place and expressed a commitment to modernizing processes, including the anticipated launch of a new jail management system in September. They also discussed the potential for partnerships with ride-sharing services like Lyft to enhance transportation options for those released at night.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for further exploration of transportation solutions and the implementation of voluntary delayed release programs to better support individuals transitioning back into the community. The committee plans to revisit these discussions, aiming to create a more effective and humane reentry process for all.