We know that the jail diversion program for addicts is working. When someone is eligible due to the nature of their crime and willing to work hard, this is a rehabilitative program that has a positive impact on the entire community.

However, there is a very distinct type of inmate that was ineligible for felony drug court due to extenuating circumstances. To get a handle on the situation, you need to understand the typical population of the Macomb County Jail. It is safe to say that more than ten (10) percent of inmates have a diagnosable mental illness. Within the population of mentally ill inmates, up to eighty percent (80%) are incarcerated because of an offense involving substance abuse such as drunk driving, domestic violence, or a theft committed to support their habit.

These individuals - because they really have two underlying issues that contribute to their behavior - are diagnosed as have "co-occurring" disorders. Mental illness combined with substance addiction.

For many of these folks, the jail has a swinging door - they come in, they do time, they leave. On average, they return within five months. Without help, their lives stay out of control. They continue to be a danger - not only to themselves but others as well. And, as we just heard, incarceration is expensive.

Community Corrections designed a program to meet the unique needs of these individuals. The "Dual Diagnosis" court provides for the same type of stringent addiction methodologies combined with a program to address and treat mental illness. And, because these individuals are often without the support of friends and families, the program utilizes a case management approach to lining up needed services including a place to live, medication if necessary, and a way to become gainfully employed.

Just as the previous jail diversion program is working, so too is this one. Tracking participants has proved that by helping this especially vulnerable population to get their basic needs met has drastically reduced the rate of recidivism. In fact, circuit courts from throughout Michigan are asking for help to set up their own dual diagnosis courts.