Williamson County judges address mental health and substance abuse in felony programs

The Williamson County Commissioners Court held a regular session on May 20, 2025, focusing on mental health and substance abuse issues within the justice system. The meeting featured discussions led by judges overseeing specialized treatment courts aimed at addressing the intersection of mental health, substance use, and criminal behavior.

The session began with Judge Barker discussing the Williamson County Felony Mental Health Docket. She emphasized the importance of addressing mental health conditions among offenders, noting that many individuals with untreated mental health issues often cycle through incarceration without receiving the necessary care. Judge Barker highlighted the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including Bluebonnet Trails Community Services, the district attorney's office, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), to provide support and treatment for participants. The program aims to reduce recidivism and enhance public safety by engaging individuals in treatment and fostering self-awareness.

Judge Barker reported that since the program's inception in 2019, there have been 75 participants, with 38 graduates and a success rate of approximately 82%. She introduced the concept of a "passport to wellness," which encourages participants to take ownership of their recovery journey over a 12 to 24-month period.

Following Judge Barker, Judge Brook Miller presented on the Felony DWI Drug Court Program. She explained that this program targets individuals with multiple DWI convictions, focusing on accountability and treatment rather than incarceration. Participants undergo rigorous supervision, including weekly court appearances, counseling, and random drug testing. Judge Miller noted that the program has seen a high success rate, with only 10% of participants removed, primarily due to new offenses.

Both judges underscored the importance of community support and the need for effective treatment options to break the cycle of addiction and criminal behavior. The discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts in Williamson County to address mental health and substance use issues within the justice system, aiming to create safer communities through rehabilitation rather than punishment.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among community partners to enhance the effectiveness of these programs and support individuals in their recovery journeys.