Greene County gets a Mental Health Court

CATSKILL―It is estimated that around 18% of the general population has a mental illness. But for those who are incarcerated that number skyrockets to about 40%.

The statistics have not gone unnoticed by those in the state’s legal system and Greene County has now become the latest community to get a Mental Health Court.

The newly launched court is a partnership of the Third Judicial District, the Greene County District Attorney’s Office, the local defense bar, the Greene County Department of Mental Health, the Greene County Department of Probation, and community based service providers, among others.

“Many of the individuals appearing before us are facing challenges that cannot be solved through traditional methods alone,” said Greene County Court Judge Charles Tailleur, who will preside over the new Greene County Mental Health Court.

“The Mental Health Court gives us a new way to support people in crisis and guide them toward long-term recovery,” Tailleur said.

New York got its first mental health court in 2002 with the Brooklyn Mental Health Court. Since then, dozens have opened across the state.

They are special “problem solving” courts for those charged with misdemeanors and felonies who may be experiencing mental health challenges. The idea is to divert these individuals away from incarceration and into court-supervised, community-based treatment with the goal of reversing the root causes of criminal behavior.

The New York State Unified Court System’s Office for Justice Initiatives’ Problem Solving Justice Division support the planning and implementation of Mental Health Courts statewide.

“The creation of the Greene County Mental Health Court demonstrates the district’s ongoing commitment to problem solving justice,” said Judge E. Danielle Jose Decker, administrative judge in the Capital Region's Third Judicial District.

“This collaborative effort will help ensure that individuals with behavioral health needs receive the services necessary to restore stability and move forward,” Jose-Decker added.

Individuals who are not considered a public safety risk and who agree to comply with court imposed conditions can be considered for participation in the Greene County Mental Health Court. Referrals may be made by defense counsel, prosecutors, probation, treatment agencies, and other partners.

All referrals are reviewed by the Greene County District Attorney’s Office and the prospective participant’s defense attorney.

According to the New York State Unified Court System, eligible participants will undergo assessment to determine appropriate mental health and supportive services. Upon successful completion of treatment and all court requirements, participants may have their charges reduced or dismissed.