Washoe County Mentally Ill Offender Misdemeanor Probation Pilot Project

The Edward Byrne Memorial Discretionary Grants Program (Byrne Discretionary Program) helps local communities improve the capacity of local justice systems and provides for national support efforts. This project is authorized and funded through a line item in the FY 08 Congressional Budget. Funds should be used for purposes recommended by Congress.

Washoe County will support a program to aid mentally ill offenders. Their goals are to reduce recidivism through programming, promote independence, apply life skills, encourage good employment practices, and encourage offenders to continue positive relationships with counselors and mental health providers. Washoe County will provide the offenders with a plan, referral to community resources, and placement in available treatment programs when necessary. Washoe County will also supervise the offenders on a daily basis and provide the offenders with case management and home visits. They will provide a structured system to those who are capable of getting back on their feet, who may even be working towards a home and employment for the first time rather than release them with no supervision or skills to affect change in their lives.

NCA/NCF