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Ramsey County highlights pretrial navigation pilot to connect people released from jail with community supports
Summary
County staff described a pretrial navigation program run by community partner Roots Wellness that connects people released before trial with services such as housing, employment and mental‑health supports to increase court appearances and reduce recidivism.
Ramsey County staff and community partners briefed the board June 24 on a pretrial navigation program operated by Roots Wellness to support people released from jail before trial.
County staff said the program aims to reduce recidivism and increase court appearance rates by connecting people to housing, employment, mental‑health care and other wraparound services at the moment of release. The model focuses on community‑led navigation rather than law enforcement, and staff emphasized that Roots Wellness is an independent community partner, not a county corrections arm.
County presenters said outreach will include educating judges, public defenders, county attorneys, jail staff and community providers about referral pathways so trusted messengers can connect eligible individuals to the program. Staff also said the county will share success stories and performance outcomes to support sustainability and additional referrals.
Commissioners described the effort as “smart justice” that reduces burdens on the jail and helps people stabilize after release; staff asked for help from system and community partners to expand referrals and public awareness.
