Project Inter-Cept Implementation

The Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program (JMHCP) seeks to increase public safety through an innovative, cross-system, collaborative response to individuals with mental illness who come in contact with the criminal or juvenile justice systems. This program is funded through Public Law 111-8 (Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2009). The program is designed to increase public safety by facilitating collaboration among the criminal justice, juvenile justice, and mental health and substance abuse treatment systems to increase access to services for offenders with mental illness. Activities under this initiative will encourage early intervention for 'system-involved' individuals with mental illness; provide new and existing mental health courts with various treatment options; maximize diversion opportunities for non-violent offenders with mental illness and co-occurring disorders; promote training for justice and treatment professionals on criminal justice processed and mental health and substance abuse issues; and facilitate communication, collaboration, and the delivery of support services among justice professionals, treatment and related service providers, and governmental partners.

Kanawha County Commission is the recipient of a Category II Planning and Implementation grant. The commission will use the grant funds to screen juveniles coming into the 13th Judicial Circuit Court that require formal intervention, identification, and immediate attention to behavioral health issues. The 13th Judicial Circuit Court is a critical entry point into the Kanawha County juvenile justice system. By screening youth that reach the first step in the juvenile justice system, it is anticipated that more youth will be diverted from greater involvement or repeated association with the justice system. The goals and objectives includes involvement from organizations and agencies that impact each step of the INTER-CEPT model from entry into the system to an array of services to meet the needs of youth. Training is also included to create a common knowledge base among participants so that the INTER-CEPT model is systematically and universally implemented. The program involves utilizing service providers that base treatment on evidenced-based practices, so youth will have access to services giving them the most chance for success. Data collection and distribution will direct the program as well as support sustainability through institutionalization of practices and securing additional financing.

CA/NCF