Diversion First

Diversion First was implemented because...

• Too many people are in jail due to mental health issues. Jail is not the appropriate place to provide mental health treatment.
• There is a need to prevent the incarceration of people with intellectual/developmental disabilities.
• To intervene at the earliest point possible to de-escalate situations and avoid arrest.
• It’s the right thing to do to offer treatment to people who need it, instead of jail being the default solution
• It’s less costly for people to receive treatment instead of spending time in jail
• Treatment offers hope by helping people recover and take control of their lives.
• 1 in 5 Americans has a mental illness. Having a mental illness is not a crime.
• Responding to recommendations from the Ad Hoc Police Practices Review Commission.
• The Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution to support the national Stepping Up initiative to decriminalize mental illness.

The goal is to intercede whenever possible to provide assessment, treatment or needed supports. People needing diversion may also have a substance use disorder, which often co-occurs with mental illness. Diversion First is designed to prevent repeat encounters with the criminal justice system, improve public safety, promote a healthier community and is a more cost effective and efficient use of public funding.

NEW! Read the 2021 Diversion First Annual Report (PDF).