Health organizations collaborate to help people with criminal charges tied to mental health issues

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)– Organizations in East Baton Rouge Parish are taking the nation’s mental health crisis seriously.

Dawn Collins of Capital Area Human Services said, “When it comes to mental health and stigma, we stand as champions.”

In like manner, the Bridge Center for Hope’s Executive Director, Charlotte Claiborne, emphasizes that it’s critical to focus on every aspect of someone’s well-being.

“I think a lot of people don’t realize that mental health doesn’t start at adulthood,” Claiborne said. “I mean, there are children as young as three and four. They have gone through trauma. And when that trauma is not addressed, it’ll escalate.”

The Pre-Trial Diversion and Recovery Program helps expunge non-violent offenses from criminal records and helps keep addicts clean. It also provides individuals in the program with employment opportunities.

“They cannot be violent felonies, but it can be a felony charge, particularly a drug charge or a burglary or something like that that is stemming from a behavioral health issue or a substance use issue,” said Lisa Burns, Licensed Social Worker and Case Manager.

The program must be completed in six to eight months for charges to be removed.

“Having those charges really inhibits individuals from getting good jobs,” said Brianna Jeansonne, CJCC Project Assistant.

The Pre-trial Diversion and Recovery Program is the only initiative of its kind in Louisiana. And program participants who require assistance with mental health needs can get help from the Bridge Center for Hope.

“When you come to us, we want to make sure that we got you. We understand. And we give you the keys to be successful,” Claiborne said.